Tendon repair surgery

You may need tendon repair surgery if you're experiencing any of the following after an injury or ongoing tendon problem: 

• A sudden pop, snap or sharp pain followed by weakness in a joint 
• Inability to fully bend, straighten or lift with the affected limb 
• Noticeable gap, swelling or bruising near a joint after an injury 
• A complete tendon tear or rupture confirmed through an exam or imaging 
• Difficulty walking, running, jumping or raising your arm overhead 
• Chronic tendon pain or dysfunction that hasn't improved with rest, bracing or therapy 

Your physician will review how the injury happened, examine the affected area, and use imaging as needed to determine whether surgery or nonsurgical care is the right path. 

Treatment depends on which tendon is involved, how severe the injury is and your activity level and goals. 

Nonsurgical 

Bracing, splinting or immobilization paired with guided physical therapy may help partial tears or chronic tendon problems heal without surgery. 

Surgical  

• Rotator cuff repair reattaches torn shoulder tendons to the upper arm bone 
• Patellar or quadriceps tendon repair reconnects torn tendons that support knee extension 
• Achilles tendon repair reconnects the calf muscle's tendon to the heel bone 
• Hand and wrist tendon repair, including flexor and extensor tendon repair, addresses tendons that let you bend or straighten your fingers and wrist 
• Tendon reconstruction using tissue from elsewhere in the body or a donor may be used for chronic or more complex tears 

During surgery, your care team numbs the area and may use sedation or anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Your surgeon realigns and secures the torn tendon using techniques suited to its location and the extent of the injury. Because tendons can retract and scar after a tear, early treatment often supports better healing and an easier recovery. 

Recovery timelines vary depending on which tendon was repaired and how the injury occurred, but most patients can expect: 

• A period of bracing, splinting or immobilization to protect the repair during early healing 
• A gradual, guided physical or occupational therapy program to restore motion safely 
• Progressive strengthening exercises as the tendon heals 
• Personalized guidance on when it's safe to return to work, sports and other activities 

Your surgeon and therapy team will work together throughout your recovery, adjusting your plan as your tendon heals. Following your rehabilitation program closely plays a key role in regaining strength and function. 

As with any surgery, tendon repair carries some risks, including stiffness, infection or the tendon not healing as expected. Your care team will walk you through these risks in detail and answer your questions before your procedure. Sticking closely to your recovery and therapy plan plays an important role in supporting a smooth healing process and reducing complications.