Post-operative rehabilitation of a distal biceps brachii tendon reattachment in a weightlifter: a case report.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the successful rehabilitation of a distal biceps brachii tendon reattachment following an acute traumatic tendon rupture.

CLINICAL FEATURES: A 30-year-old weightlifter presented five days post-op after a left distal biceps tendon repair. A three month one pound weight-restriction was recommended by the attending surgeon. Active and passive elbow and wrist range of motion were markedly reduced with profuse post-operative swelling and bruising noted upon initial inspection.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: An accelerated treatment program was prescribed that included soft tissue therapy, scar mobilization, laser therapy, kinesiology tape and rehabilitative exercise. A novel training method known as blood flow restriction (BFR) training was utilized throughout the rehabilitative process to maximize recovery and retain muscle mass and strength. The weightlifter returned to near pre-injury activity level after 3.5 months. Treatment, exercise and BFR protocols are provided.