Pain After Triceps Tendon Surgery: Causes and Solutions

Triceps tendon release surgery

It has been over three months since the triceps tendon release surgery, and I still experience significant pain when pushing my wrist outward.
Is it possible that the surgery was not performed correctly, or could there be another issue? Can it be repaired effectively?

Wúcuò, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/19

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Post-surgery recovery takes a certain amount of time; if you have not healed properly, you must return for a follow-up appointment to have the physician evaluate your condition.

Reply Date: 2016/04/19

More Info

After undergoing triceps tendon surgery, experiencing pain three months post-operation can be concerning and frustrating. It’s important to understand that pain after surgery can arise from various factors, and addressing these can help in managing the discomfort and improving recovery.

Causes of Pain After Triceps Tendon Surgery
1. Surgical Trauma: The surgical procedure itself can cause trauma to surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. This is a normal part of the healing process, but the intensity and duration can vary among individuals.

2. Nerve Irritation or Damage: During surgery, nerves in the vicinity of the triceps tendon may become irritated or damaged. This can lead to pain, tingling, or numbness in the arm or hand.

3. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can develop around the surgical site. This scar tissue can sometimes adhere to nerves or other structures, causing pain and limiting mobility.

4. Inadequate Rehabilitation: Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial for recovery. If rehabilitation exercises are not performed as recommended, or if there is a lack of physical therapy, it can lead to stiffness and pain.

5. Infection: Although less common, an infection at the surgical site can cause significant pain and should be ruled out, especially if there are other symptoms like swelling, redness, or fever.

6. Tendon Healing Issues: Sometimes, the tendon may not heal properly, leading to persistent pain. This could be due to factors such as inadequate blood supply, excessive tension on the tendon, or improper alignment during surgery.

Solutions and Management Strategies
1. Consultation with Your Surgeon: The first step in addressing your concerns is to consult with the surgeon who performed the procedure. They can assess whether the pain is within the normal range of post-operative recovery or if there are complications that need to be addressed.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can help improve strength and flexibility in the affected arm. A physical therapist can provide exercises tailored to your specific needs and monitor your progress.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications if necessary.

4. Rest and Ice: Allowing the arm to rest and applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. It’s important to balance rest with gentle movement to prevent stiffness.

5. Gradual Return to Activities: Avoid pushing through pain during activities. Gradually reintroducing movements and activities can help you gauge your limits and avoid exacerbating the pain.

6. Monitoring for Complications: Keep an eye out for signs of complications, such as increased swelling, fever, or drainage from the surgical site. If these occur, seek medical attention promptly.

7. Surgical Revision: If pain persists and is determined to be due to surgical complications, a revision surgery may be necessary. This is typically considered a last resort after other management strategies have been exhausted.

Conclusion
Pain after triceps tendon surgery can stem from various causes, and understanding these can help in managing your recovery. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, follow through with rehabilitation, and monitor your symptoms closely. With appropriate management and care, many patients can achieve significant improvement in pain and function over time. If you have ongoing concerns about the healing process or the nature of your pain, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation and support from your medical team.

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