Elbow
Advanced Elbow Recovery & Rehabilitation
Advanced, research-backed recovery plans developed by Dr. Frank McCormick and the SIGMA Orthopedic and Sports Medicine team to restore movement, build strength, and achieve optimal results. Precision-guided recovery designed for ligament, tendon, and joint injuries, created specifically for active individuals and athletes.
At SIGMA Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, elbow rehabilitation is powered by the 100 Days to Success program, a results-driven recovery model combining arthroscopic repair, biologic support, and Six Sigma motion analytics. Whether healing from UCL reconstruction (Tommy John procedure), tendon repair, or arthroscopic debridement, every plan is tailored to rebuild throwing mechanics, grip endurance, and upper-limb coordination with measurable accuracy.
Elbow Surgery Recovery: What Happens Next
A successful outcome depends on more than just surgery; it’s built through a structured recovery process. Each SIGMA protocol moves from initial protection to full performance using data-based methods developed through Dr. McCormick’s outcomes research.
- Pain regulation
- Early joint movement
- Swelling and fluid control
- Correct use of bracing
Stages of Recovery
Phase I: Protection (Weeks 0–2)
Immobilization, cooling therapy, and gentle passive motion.
Focus: Protect the repair, control pain/swelling, and begin safe assisted movement.
Phase II: Motion Recovery (Weeks 2–6)
Controlled bending/straightening, gradual ROM progress, SynerG biologic support.
Focus: Restore smooth range of motion, improve joint control, and maintain repair integrity as activity increases.
Phase III: Strength Development (Weeks 6–12)
Isometrics → resistance work → dynamic stability training.
Focus: Rebuild strength and endurance, improve stability under load, and prepare the arm for functional demands.
Phase IV: Return to Activity (Weeks 12+)
Sport-specific reconditioning, upper-limb coordination, kinetic chain integration.
Focus: Progress safely back to lifting/throwing, refine mechanics, and return to performance with confidence.
Recovery Support Resources
- Cold therapy
- TENS stimulation
- Infrared healing technology
- Nutritional optimization
- Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs)
- 100 Days to Health Program
FAQs
Common Questions for Elbow Rehabilitation at SIGMA Orthopedics
When can elbow movement begin after surgery?
Gentle, therapist-guided motion often starts within 1–2 weeks, depending on the procedure and tissue protection needs. Early motion helps reduce stiffness while keeping the repair safe.
When is it safe to return to lifting or throwing?
Return timing depends on healing, strength benchmarks, and procedure type. Light strengthening commonly begins around 6–12 weeks, while throwing or higher-demand activity often starts later through a phased return-to-sport program, once motion, stability, and mechanics meet readiness goals.
Will a brace be needed, and how long is it usually worn?
A brace is commonly used early to protect the repair and control the range of motion. Many patients wear one for several weeks, with adjustments and weaning based on stability, swelling control, and progress through therapy.
Can biologic injections help support faster tendon recovery?
In select cases, biologics may help support tissue healing and reduce inflammation, but results vary. They tend to work best as part of a structured plan that includes accurate diagnosis, load management, and progressive strengthening not as a standalone “quick fix.”