Tendon Surgery: What You Need to Know Before and After

Tendon surgery can sound scary, but knowing what to expect makes it easier. Tendons connect muscles to bones, so when they get injured badly, sometimes surgery is the way to fix them. Whether it’s from sports, accidents, or wear and tear, a torn or damaged tendon needs expert care to heal right.

Most tendon surgeries aim to repair or reattach the tendon, sometimes using stitches or even grafts from other parts of your body. The surgeon will decide the best method depending on where and how bad the damage is. If you’re wondering about the procedure itself, it usually involves local or general anesthesia and can last an hour or two. After, the healing process really kicks in.

What Happens After Surgery?

The recovery phase can be slow, but sticking to your doctor’s advice helps a lot. Right after surgery, expect swelling and some discomfort—that's normal. You’ll likely wear a splint or brace to keep the tendon still and protected while it starts to heal. Moving too soon or too much can risk damaging the repair, so patience is key.

Physical therapy often begins a few weeks later. Rehab exercises help restore movement and rebuild strength gradually. It might seem frustrating to go slow, but pushing too hard can set you back. Listening to your body and your therapist makes all the difference. Most people regain good function, but the timeline varies based on the tendon’s location and injury severity.

Risks and Tips for Success

Like any surgery, tendon repairs carry some risks like infection, stiffness, or the tendon not healing properly. These risks are real but pretty low with good surgical care and following post-op instructions closely. To improve your chances, keeping a clean wound site and avoiding smoking are smart moves.

Good nutrition and avoiding stress on the healing tendon speeds recovery. It’s tempting to rush things, especially if you’re active, but rushing usually means setbacks. Set small goals with your therapist and celebrate progress—this keeps motivation up and recovery on track.

Tendon surgery isn’t the end of the road but the start of a journey back to full use. Understanding what’s ahead, preparing for tough days, and following expert advice puts you in the driver’s seat. Got questions about your specific case or next steps? Chatting with your healthcare team is the best way to clear them up.