Triceps Repair Physiotherapy in Singapore

What is Triceps Repair Surgery?

Triceps repair (commonly distal triceps avulsion repair) is a surgical procedure to reattach the torn triceps tendon back to the elbow bone (olecranon).

This injury usually occurs when the tendon completely detaches, leading to significant weakness and inability to straighten the arm.

The triceps muscle is essential for elbow extension (straightening your arm), and without proper repair, daily activities and sports performance are severely affected.

If you are looking for triceps repair physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.

Why is Surgery Needed?

Surgery is usually required when:

• There is a complete triceps tendon rupture
• You cannot straighten your elbow properly
• There is a visible gap near the elbow
• Significant weakness affects daily activities
• Conservative treatment is not effective

Without surgery, full strength and function are unlikely to return in complete tears.

Common Causes of Triceps Rupture

• Heavy weightlifting (bench press, dips)
• Sudden forceful pushing movements
• Direct trauma to the elbow
• Degenerative tendon changes
• Eccentric overload (muscle forced to lengthen under tension)

Symptoms Before Surgery

• Sudden “snap” or tearing sensation
• Severe pain at the back of the elbow
• Swelling and bruising
• Cannot straighten the elbow
• Weakness in pushing movements
• Visible gap near the tendon

Patients often say:

• “I cannot straighten my arm”
• “My arm feels very weak when pushing”
• “There was a sudden snap during gym”

Physiotherapy BEFORE Surgery

Pre-surgery physiotherapy helps prepare your arm for better recovery.

At ACE Physio Sports, this includes:

• Pain and swelling management
• Gentle mobility exercises
• Maintaining shoulder, wrist, and hand function
• Light strengthening of surrounding muscles
• Education on safe movements

This phase improves surgical outcomes and reduces complications.

Start your prehab here: 👉 https://acephysiosport.com

Symptoms AFTER Triceps Repair Surgery

After surgery, your arm will usually be placed in a hinged brace to protect the repair.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain around the elbow
• Swelling and bruising
• Stiffness
• Limited movement
• Weakness when trying to straighten the arm

Physiotherapy AFTER Triceps Repair (Phases)

Rehabilitation is structured and progressive to protect the tendon while restoring function.

Phase 1: Protection Phase (0–2 weeks)

• Arm immobilised in brace (~60° flexion)
• Pain and swelling control
• Gentle passive movement
• Maintain shoulder, wrist, and hand mobility

Phase 2: Early Movement Phase (2–6 weeks)

• Gradual increase in elbow movement
• Brace adjusted progressively
• Active-assisted exercises
• Gentle muscle activation

Phase 3: Strengthening Phase (6–12 weeks)

• Brace removed
• Active movement restored
• Progressive strengthening exercises
• Functional arm training

Phase 4: Advanced Rehab (3–6 months)

• Strength and endurance training
• Sport- or work-specific rehab
• Return to gym and full activity

Full recovery may take up to 6 months, depending on severity and compliance.

What Should I Do After Surgery?

• Follow your physiotherapy plan strictly
• Protect the repair (avoid pushing early)
• Attend regular rehab sessions
• Gradually progress exercises

What Shouldn’t I Do?

• Do not remove brace early
• Avoid pushing, lifting, or weight training initially
• Do not rush recovery timelines
• Avoid ignoring pain or swelling

Recovery & Long-Term Outcomes

With proper physiotherapy:

• Most patients regain full function and strength
• Return to sports and gym is possible
• Risk of re-injury is reduced

Without rehab, you may experience:

• Persistent weakness
• Reduced arm strength
• Limited elbow movement
• Poor functional recovery

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

ACE Physio Sports in Singapore, near East Coast Road, provides expert post-surgical rehabilitation.

✔ Specialised in tendon repair rehab ✔ Structured, phase-based recovery programs ✔ One-on-one physiotherapy care ✔ Focus on safe return to sport and gym ✔ Evidence-based treatment approach

We guide you through every stage—from surgery recovery to full performance.

Book Appointment

Recover safely and regain full arm strength with expert physiotherapy.

📞 Call: +65 81535374 🌐 Book Online: 👉 https://acephysiosport.com