Early Mobilization Using Dynamic Splinting with Acute Triceps Tendon Avulsion

Avulsion of the triceps tendon is rare, and no previous report of a completed dynamic splinting rehabilitation plan was found in the literature. A case of a military member and power weightlifter who sustained a triceps tendon avulsion and repair is presented with a six-month follow-up. The rehabilitation program included early active elbow flexion and passive extension using a dynamic elbow splint. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH)1, 2, 3 questionnaire was used to monitor the patient's use of his right dominant arm while in the dynamic splint. The DASH scores indicated that he experienced improved use of his affected arm during the splinting period. The end result was a good return of function within 13 weeks and full resumption of work and bodybuilding activities in six months, three months earlier than others reported in the literature who were immobilized after surgery.4, 5