Rehabilitation protocol
Radial-Head Replacement Rehabilitation Protocol
The current rehabilitation used after a radial-head replacement when the elbow is stable enough for early protected motion. Early care protects the elbow while motion is restored, then strength is gradually rebuilt. When the replacement is part of a more complex reconstruction, your surgeon may select a different, more protective plan. Your surgical team will tailor it to you — always follow the individualized plan they give you.
Who this protocol is for
Applies to a radial-head replacement, most consistent with an isolated replacement or one in which the surgeon has judged the elbow stable enough to begin early protected motion. It does NOT apply to a distal biceps repair or to a simple elbow dislocation or isolated coronoid fracture. When a radial-head replacement is one component of a terrible-triad or other complex reconstruction, the surgeon-selected plan for the whole injury governs — this stand-alone protocol does not supersede the terrible-triad protocol, and if the surgeon selects the terrible-triad plan for the combined reconstruction, that plan applies. The operative note and surgeon-selected protocol take precedence, and patients should use only the protocol identified by their surgical team.
What this protocol covers
- Rehabilitation after a radial-head replacement when the elbow is stable enough for early protected motion (most consistent with an isolated replacement).
- It does NOT apply to a distal biceps repair, a simple elbow dislocation, or an isolated coronoid fracture.
- When the replacement is part of a terrible-triad or other complex reconstruction, the surgeon-selected plan for the whole injury governs — this protocol does not supersede the terrible-triad protocol.
- Your surgical team selects the protocol — use only the one you are given, and follow your operative note.
If your replacement was part of a complex reconstruction
This protocol is for a radial-head replacement when the elbow is stable enough for early protected motion. It is not the protocol for a distal biceps repair. When a radial-head replacement is one component of a terrible-triad or other complex reconstruction, the plan for the whole injury governs and is often more protective; if your surgeon selected the terrible-triad plan for the combined reconstruction, that plan applies and this stand-alone protocol does not supersede it. This protocol never substitutes for your operative note or the plan your surgeon selected — follow the individualized instructions your surgical team gives you.
How rehabilitation is generally structured
Rehabilitation after this procedure is usually organized into progressive phases. The phases below describe the general shape only — specific exercises, precautions, and timelines are individual and are set by your surgeon and physical therapist.
Early protected motion
The earliest period after surgery, focused on protecting the elbow — commonly with a splint or sling for comfort — while beginning early active motion of the elbow and forearm as your surgeon directs to limit stiffness.
Transitional phase
As healing allows, progressing toward full elbow and forearm motion, weaning protection, and beginning gentle strengthening within the limits your surgical team sets.
Strengthening
Progressively rebuilding elbow, forearm, and grip strength and control as motion returns and healing continues.
Return to activity
A criteria-based return toward full activity and, when appropriate, sport — guided by restored motion and strength and physician clearance rather than a fixed calendar.
This overview describes the general structure of rehabilitation only. It does not replace the specific instructions of your own surgical team, whose guidance always takes precedence. Timelines, the safe range of motion, forearm position, and loading are individual and are set for you at your appointments, and your operative note takes precedence. Use only the protocol your surgical team selected for you.