Tommy John surgery is a procedure to fix a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). Your UCL is located on the inner side of your elbow, and helps with movements such as throwing.
The surgery is named after the baseball pitcher Tommy John, who was the first person to have this procedure.
It’s commonly performed on people who play sports with overarm actions — for example, baseball, tennis, and javelin.
In this article, we’ll learn about Tommy John surgery recovery time, the rehab process, and how physical therapy can aid recovery.
What Is the Recovery Timeline for Tommy John Surgery?
Recovery for Tommy John surgery typically takes a year to 18 months. At this point, you can return to playing sports at your previous level. Tommy John surgery rehab can be divided into distinct phases:
Immediate Post-Surgery
Straight after surgery, your arm will be put in a brace for about a week to keep it stable. During this time, you can do exercises for your hand, shoulder, and biceps to prevent muscle wastage.
This phase lasts around two weeks.
Early Rehabilitation
Around two weeks after surgery, you can start moving your elbow joint while still wearing the brace. You can also start exercising the rest of your body to maintain your general fitness.
Expect this phase of elbow surgery rehab to last around one month. At this point, you should have regained your full range of motion for your elbow, forearm, wrist, and shoulder.
Advanced Rehabilitation
Advanced rehabilitation involves continuing to work with your physical therapist to build strength around your elbow, arm, and shoulder.
Around three to four months post-surgery, you can resume baseball athletic training (or training for another sport). Follow your therapist’s guidance to prevent further injury. Additionally, You should gradually increase your throws and other elbow actions.
This is the longest phase of rehabilitation, lasting 10 to 11 months.
Return to Sport
Return to sport is usually achieved around the one-year to 18-month mark.
What Does Tommy John Surgery
Rehabilitation Involve?
Let’s take a closer look at Tommy John surgery rehab, identifying which exercises are appropriate for each stage of recovery.
Immediate Post-Surgery Exercises
During this phase, your therapist will show you gentle exercises for your hand, shoulder, and biceps. These can include:
- Forearm range of motion exercises
- Wrist range of motion exercises
- Wrist flexion and extension exercises
Early Rehabilitation Exercises
In the early rehabilitation phase, you can embark on a total body conditioning program. You should also continue to work on building up strength and flexibility around your elbow.
Advanced Rehabilitation Exercises
Continue with your targeted elbow exercises and your body conditioning during this phase.
Once there is no more swelling around the elbow and you have regained full range of movement, you can practice throwing three to four times a week.
Gradually increase the number of throws and throwing distance until you are back up to your previous level.
Elbow surgery recovery should be properly managed so you can avoid setbacks and get back to your sport as soon as possible. Committing to a targeted rehabilitation plan is key to a full and successful recovery.
How Can Physical Therapy Help After Tommy John Surgery?
A full and safe recovery from Tommy John surgery is only possible with the guidance of a physical therapist.
Here at JAG Physical Therapy, we have extensive experience helping people recover from elbow conditions, including UCL injuries. Our personalized physical therapy programs can help you regain strength, flexibility, and function in the elbow after surgery.
We also offer return-to-sport programs and athletic training services to support your rehabilitation.
What Are Common Challenges During Tommy John Surgery Recovery?
Tommy John surgery recovery is a long process, and you may encounter challenges along the way.
All surgery carries risks, so you should be aware that infection and damage to nerves or blood vessels in the elbow could happen. Consult your doctor straight away if you think this is the case.
Your new tendon could tear, which means you’ll need a second procedure to repair it.
You may also continue to experience swelling or discomfort during your recovery phase. Working closely with your doctor and physical therapist can help you manage these challenges.
Get Expert Rehabilitation Support at JAG Physical Therapy
Physical therapy after Tommy John surgery is a must. It can help you recover faster and more safely. Working with your therapist will also ensure that you feel supported all the way through your rehab.
Start your recovery from Tommy John surgery today by fixing an appointment with the experts at JAG PT. Contact us or schedule an appointment now.