@@TheSantos173 I'm very happy. I'll feel occasional fatigue in that bicep but nothing life changing, still get a good pump and enjoy lifting just fine.
amazing info.. I'm 2 weeks post op. Endobutton technique. I'm documenting my rehab process as well as my physio. Your videos have helped me a lot, and hope that I can return the favor for others here on youtube!
Right arm I babied after surgeryand it was probably full year before I regained all size and strength. Left arm I’m not even 4 months post op and expect to be close to 100 percent at 6 months. It’s scary but you will come back as strong as ever just be patient.
@@joellefrancis960 I’m reading conflicting info on whether to get the surgery or not. I go to the VA, so of course my Dr. was like you’ll be fine. I’m 39yo active male though, I want full use of my bicep…
@@newbluerugby i had the option of surgery i didn't do it i supplemented organic vitamin c vitamin d 50000 glucosamine zinc magnesium and 5 times 10 pills a day collagen and now 4 months later 90 % strength back
I'm 1 year post op here in east Texas and love lifting the hardest thing for me has been on the mental side, I think about that pop every rep. Thanks for the Video its encouraging that you've got back to the weight from before.
I know what you mean. I am afraid of that pop. 3 weeks post off. Double entry. Button repair. I was climbing of the truck when I snapped it. God the pain. I fell hurt my pelvic hip and banged my head. Heavy cap on. Told dispatcher at 22.00 hrs. All he was interested was who was doing the run. 450miles round trip two trailer drops. Old school. 62 yrs old did the job finished at 10.00 in the morning and straight to hospital.. I'd like to thank my trucker mates for helping me change trailers. Please god the next 4/6 weeks go quickly so I can get back to work. No insurance
I recently underwent bicep tendon surgery at the VA, and it was quite a different approach! Instead of a cast, they just put it in a sling for a couple of days. They encouraged me to move my arm freely, with some restrictions for the first month. After three months, I should be able to lift anything I want. The procedure involved two incisions, one in the forearm and another to reach the end of the bicep tendon. They needed the second incision because they couldn't reach the end of my biceps from the initial one, according to the doctor. It's not always necessary, but in my case, it was.
Thank you for this. Had to wait 17 days for my surgery but am now one week post op. Needed to hear all of this right now more than you know. Being out of the gym is the hardest part for me mentally. Itching to start pt.
It's a long recovery mate - the first 6 weeks immobilisation is awful. I just hit 12 weeks post-surgery and have full supination/pronation back finally (pronation took much longer). After the first two weeks of doing nothing I started going back to the gym (wearing the sling) just to do *something* with the other arm and leg presses etc. I then did super light free weights work (1-2kg) with the injured arm from weeks 6-12, still massive muscle wastage. Apparently can taper the weight back up gradually now for the next 12 weeks. They say 6-12 months for 'full' recovery, I'm aiming for 6... Good luck with your recovery!
@@Peter-sl6mf Hey mate, I'd say 'it depends' as everyone will be different. I only had very mild numbness in the top of the forearm, and this only lasted about 8 weeks. Most of my pain was gone at 3 months, occasionally it'd have some mild discomfort. Good luck getting started with physio (probably just assisted range of motion at this stage but it's important to get everything moving in a controlled manner) and your ongoing recovery!
@@tchpandy thank you for getting back to me Pandy. I was on a real downer last Thursday I don't do depression but I was down with it for two days. Quadruple heart bypass surgery last year off work for 7 months just getting back on my feet financially then 6 weeks ago slipped off the truck and snapped the tendon. Yes good to hear the numbness and pain will end in another 4 weeks. Are you glad you had the repair. Reading some other comments from patients they are doing OK. My consultant said I didn't need it. I could function.with.20% loss of power in my arm. Iam 62 a truck driver. The consultant said I could go straight back to work. But my social outlet is the 🏋️♂️ gym. Once again thank you for responding
@@Peter-sl6mfHi again mate, yes the mental side of it really knocked me around and ruined X-Mas/New Years/January/February. I am glad I had the surgery but it has been a very long 6 months. I am waiting for clearance for a full return to sport (indoor cricket) on Tuesday. I also wasn't allowed to drive for the initial 6 weeks as it had to stay in the splint/sling, perhaps rehab protocols treat this one differently in the UK? Anyway, there'll be small improvements for you each day, even though some days it'll give you aches/pains. Hang in there! -Andy
great video, helped me a lot during my recovery, I got a complete tendor tear during a deadlift (at 90% of my max) using alternate grip. Although Ib had been doing deadlifts like this for the past 13 years, I will never, ever again use alternate grip. I am now at month 3 after surgery and will start with hook grip little by little.
I tore my distal bicep tendon Sept 1 , 2020 Covid injury ..lol 61 year old retired Fire fighter and lifter , carpenter . My surgery went well and no nerve damage and used the sling for only a few days then I was able to complete a Kitchen Reno that I was working on prior to my injury . I had my cast removed this week and full range of motion after 4 weeks with only tenderness in the radial bone after the procedure ..get active and know your limits !! Good luck
@Andy Baker, thanks for the update. I echo your statement that continued training during recovery is a must. Full right distal biceps tendon rupture for me. Hyper-extended the elbow after making a mistake on a ring muscle-up. Endo-button repaired. I only took 10 days off of training post OP. I continued uni-lateral weight training and modified CrossFit 5 days per week beginning at day 12 post OP. Went into a ROM brace at 10 days post surgery and was allowed to begin physical therapy (PT) the same day. At week 2 post OP physical therapy consisted of blood flow restriction (legs) and close to FULL range of motion at the elbow, shoulders, wrists etc. Week 3 post OP and I’m allowed to actively activate my bicep by moving the arm from full extension to bent elbow. Week 3 also included dry needling with electric stimulation in the brachialus, bicep and forearm. I’m now in week 4 and rarely use the arm brace and am allowed to keep the arm safely moving and keep ROM active in the elbow, shoulder and wrist.
Thanks Andy, great vid. Im two weeks post surgery and this is just what im after. Im serving with the Australian Air Force and was lucky enough to have surgery the day after my injury (on gymnastic rings which i had no business being on as a 45 year old). I started back in the gym this week. Leg extensions and hamstring curls, bodyweight squats, one arm dumbbell press, and one arm pulls with cables.
Super helpful. I go in tomorrow for my procedure. Good to know it’s not likely to be a whole 6 months before I can do anything. Obviously with caution. Mine was basketball. Help defender got a hand on the ball and had an abrupt extension of the left arm as I tried to go to the basket. Still, 6 weeks in a brace/sling :/
Thank you for the informative video Andy. I had surgery 3/23/22 and it's just like you mentioned. I'm glad I came across your video. At 53, I still work out somewhat, but my rupture came from lifting a TV set while moving, when I heard and felt the rupture. My trade is Cable Splicing so no choice but to undergo the surgery. You've laid it out just as it has gone thus far. I'm hitting the gym first thing tomorrow and plan to be back at work in a couple of months. Hoping all is good with you Bro. Thanks again.
Thanks for this. I'm 60 and tore my left one picking up a longboard surfboard on Waikiki Beach (on day one of vacation of course). I'm two days post surgery and feeling frustrated by not being able to do much for while (and the long road of recovery ahead), but your video has definitely encouraged me a lot. Thanks again. I hope to return to the same surfing spot someday for a "do over."
Amazing video. I really needed to hear everything you have said. I’m 4weeks post operation and it’s been a mental and physical rollercoaster. Appreciate this video
How are things going now? I'm 4 weeks post OP right now so you are a month ahead of me. I tore mine playing baseball. I bat right handed and it was my left bicep that tore when my arm was fully extended out.
@@mattchew4161 Pretty decent. My arm feels more normal and all these lifts surrounding utilizing my bicep have been going up. Im up to 155lb on bench. Taking it easy. But 15lb dumbbell curls on that arm still feel heavy and it has been like that for a couple weeks. Also it is hard to flex that bicep. It is like it won't completely neurologically engage
3 weeks after op, no exercise, watched your video and started training tonight! Feel great! Even if it's just a few small leg movements and stomach. This was the best advise ever! Thank you!
@@rjturner4742 thanks! No brace for me, just a cottonwrap and bandage wrapped outside. The pain was horrible day 1 and 2, got better day 3 and yesterday, day 4, i started some really light stretching. All without letting my biceps work at all of course. Without any pain i can almost get the arm all the way out to completely straight. I can rotate my palm about 100 degrees without any pain so all good so far! Yesterday i changed the wrapping and all looked good, 7 stitches. Will start exercise saturday, lightly, stationary bike, and legs, lots of legs :)
@@rjturner4742 This is the routines i follow www.google.se/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=www.chiropractic.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/111118-1_Chiro_62_3i_Wentzell.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjqqZGe5NHxAhWQAxAIHYcVDRMQFnoECDUQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1h8vqdFTCPIbrtaA1NgtiY Also some good info on the recovery.
@@mranderz that’s awesome I’m close to full extension and can rotate my wrist almost all the way. Hopefully won’t need the brace by next week. Keep up the good work and you’ll be 100 percent soon
Had operation yesterday, done it boxing, moving quickly and if dehydrated seem to be common, interesting also over 50 sportsmen seem to be vulnerable, good to see you are recovering well.
41yrs old, ripped it on my left arm this last Friday unloading tree logs from my truck bed. Completely unexpected. My 70yr old father was unloading them with me. He is fine, lol. Going to the docs this week. Hopefully they can fix me up like they were abe to for you. Thanks for the video! Really appreciate it!
Hello from the UK, just wanted to say thank you Andy for this video - wish i had seen this back in December! Just getting over my own bicep tendon rupture, did it using switch-grip on a deadlift and most likely my bad form (had gone for a PB) meant the bicep took the hit. Has been a tough few months, surgery went well, and have been back training a few weeks now. This video has really helped reassure me that I'm not moving too fast and that you can train sensibly and keep the ball rolling.
Did you rupture the LHB proximal biceps tendon? I have ruptured mine and have seen 2 consultants of which neither will do the operation as the risks outweigh the reward and it would purely be for aesthetic reasons. I'm also based in the UK. Would be grateful to hear where you had the op done, thanks.
@@samjarea hi - sorry to hear you've ran into this injury as well! i did my distal bicep tendon in, so where it joins the forearm. proximal is up by the shoulder isn't it? my bicep was like a limp balloon, and the doc managed to get me in just under the 2week window to get it fixed (happened right before the last bad covid wave last December, so was really touch and go). I ended up with two significant scars (as opposed to one) as they could only just about fix it, but was so relieved to get it sorted. Managed to get back training and on track again. I had my surgery at Rugby Hospital. Good luck!
@@samjarea very surprised if they aren't gonna sort the surgery out for you, as its a big injury to get over. I did get told if I was in my 60s + they normally don't risk the surgery, but its far more than aesthetics. I was really impaired whilst waiting for the surgery
@@badassdewi Thanks for getting back to me. Yeah, proximal is up by the shoulder. I had a 3rd consult today and the surgeon agreed to perform open subpectoral biceps tenodesis, even though in his opinion I should not have the surgery due to the risks.
Thanks for the detail. Outlining your personal experience and adding in the things you learned along the way should be very helpful. I am on day 3 post injury and should be getting surgery on day 12. The surgeon is the only one who seems to think this needs to be completed in days and not weeks. I am 54 and ruptured the left side scooping a trapeze artist back to the platform. It was more of a freak event than a heavy overload.
I tore mine Oct 11, 2019 changing a fricking tire LOL. Rehab taking awhile because I was released right about the start of the bloody COVID shutdown, open, shutdown again, just back in the gym 3 weeks now, can't believe how flabby my muscles have gotten. Looking forward to building back up. Thanks brother. Bill 50 year old
I’m 56, weight lift and do cardio about 5x week for about 60-90 minutes very intensely and have a very nutritional diet. PT training in the U.S. Marines never got out of my lifestyle. While putting my mt. bike into the back of the SUV one handed in the supination grip, I heard the loud pop of my distal tendon rupture off my forearm bone. I was lucky to get surgery within 72 hours and had the “endobutton procedure” done by one of the best orthopedic sport surgeons (Dr. Laura Timmerman). I was one of the unlucky 3-4% who lose all mobility of my fingers which was very unnerving (pun intendoned). She said my radial nerve must have been stretched but she was adamant she was extremely cautious about this. Fortunately within a week I regained full feeling and mobility of my fingers. I’m mentioning this to ease anxiety if this happens to you. I have a high tolerance to pain but I will tell you after I got the immobilized splint off a week later my pain level was about an 8 early in the mornings then about a 3-4 the rest of the day until evening when it starts climbing again. I’m now a month post op and the pain level remains the same. I have numbness on my forearm but I can make a fist and squeeze really hard. I can fully extend my arm out but I certainly can’t twist open a doorknob or bottle top. I’m starting PT this week. So my question to anyone who has experienced this horrible injury is this. A month after the surgery are you at a pain level around 8 early in the morning like 3 or 4a.m.? So far Andy’s videos have been the most informative and most helpful above any other information I have heard. Thanks and may the rest of you have a speedy and full recovery! Semper Fi Andy!
I'm a 62-year-old steel hauler. Doc told me there would be no PT. Still in the first week after surgery. He knows I will "get back" to full use. It's all about holding me back while it heals. It happened on the job, and this is just torture for a working man. Thanks for this video, and some idea on the recovery. Being old, but still quite active... it will obviously take a little longer, but I'm in it for the long run.
I am 7 weeks post surgery. Just wondering on your thoughts on using Elbow sleeve or Arm compression sleeve when returning to the gym. Thanks for the videos
I am 1 week post surgery, was training in the gym, free weight preacher curls and I literally saw my left arms bicep snap and roll into a ball. Literally saw stars and was borderline scared thinking that my gym days would come to an end. I called my PT who is also my friend and he got me an appointment with the orthopaedic surgery team. I had my surgery on 09/30/24 and now recovering. I sit with hope to recover soon and regain my strength. Had so many home renovations scheduled and this unfortunate incident came along.
2 days post for me.... how are you doing? I'm in a splint/sling, first appointment is in a week. I pray to God they take the splint off, keeping my arm at a 90 for weeks on end sounds like the most horrible thing ever. How's your pain? I've been able to skip the pain meds thus far. 🤞🏼
@@ryanrolf-music163 I’m two weeks post surgery still in a sling will be starting physical therapy today. The sling is not so annoying for me as much as the nerve pain down at my wrist but the doctor say that that is normal and will pass off with physical therapy. Wish you a speedy recovery and get well soon.
1 week out for me, just got the splint removed and got fitted for my brace today. It suck’s but gotta take it one day at a time. Very inconvenient but we’ll look back in 6-9-12 months and be surprised we got thru it, best of luck
@@Joed1191 good luck with the recovery my friend. Luckily I was not asked to wear a brace. I’ve got the sling for 6 weeks. Btw I just started with therapy yesterday and it was painful. But I was able to extend my arm a lot more than 90 degrees.
Hey man I just tore my bicep yesterday. I'm fairly sure it's a partial as I can do a hook test and hook the tendon with a little poking and I have some activation in the bicep, no "popeye"ing and I can supinate with some force (and pain). I'll go for imaging today or tomorrow - from what I can gather surgery is indicated with 50% or more of a tear. Anyhow, this vid was really great to see, broken down sensibly from my someone that wants to keep/add strength. Appreciate it.
Bro just had my right side done just a question. How did you do your second one? Was it not warming up or you favour your good side so you loading more weights?
@@watlalalallala5524 it was poor technique.... trying to lift a piece of lawn equipment and I hyperextended my arm. Distal bicep tendon tour right off the bone.
Had the Endobutton repair 3 days ago on the left bicep due to flipping a tractor tyre once too many times for a 45 year old. Great to find this video. Looking forward to recovering and getting back training. No more tyre flipping though.
Thank you for this video. I am getting reattachment surgery tomorrow. You put a lot of my concerns at ease. Fortunately my surgeon is also a lifter and is not as conservative as a lot of doctors seem to be. But still the way you laid everything out is really helpful.
This was a fantastic video. It gives me some hope as I have my surgery tomorrow morning. Spent my entire life being super active and I was afraid that I would regress for ever. Ruptured it working as a Fireman when I missed a step in the smoke and caught myself when I fell weighting about 300 pounds with all of my gear.
@firemedic114 I had surgery Monday. Extremely stiff and sore. Im hoping the pain decreases in the next week. Right now I can't turn hand palm up or move much
Appreciate your videos. 5 months post op and 54 year old lifter wanted to see someone who was getting back at it after the surgery. Gives me more confidence going forward.
I have fully recovered without limitation. I have to say my days of 50 an55 lbs dumbbell curls are behind me. More 40lbs X 20 reps. 4 sets. Not because of physical limitation more psychological. Good luck to you and give it time and patience.
@@Swear-uv8gq Thank you, I’m still fairly young, 23. Happened during a deadlift, def gonna take it easy for a while and am sure it’ll be psychological as well when I step under the bar again.
Had the same surgery. My doctor didn't tell me how long I should keep the sling. So I took it off the next day. I started working out about a week after my surgery. When I went back to the doctor for a follow up he couldn't believe that I was already moving that well without pain. It's been 3 weeks now and I'm doing dumbbell curls with about 2/3 the weight of the other arm. I know I started to soon probably and could have reinjure myself but by doing that I didn't lose any muscle mass.
Hi Andy. I appreciate your video. I learned quite a bit. I'm at 12 weeks post OP. I am 66 years young and joining a Gym this coming week. I appreciate your advice on exercises for my rehab. My main goal is getting back on the Golf Course and being as active as I was pre injury. If you have any further advice it will be appreciated. Have a great day and good luck in your endeavors. ScottyD
Just got injured a few day ago, had lots of cross thoughts and questions, watching this video help me make the right decision! I really appreciate you taking the time to put this video together and uploaded to the site. It really makes a difference. For some of us that don't have the money to pay for the top doctors and/or rehab places your words bring us peace in these desperate moments! Once again THANK YOU SO MUCH for this video!!!
There are two button techniques. One is to drill through to the middle of the bone. The other is to drill through the bone completely. The problem with going through the bone completely is that there is greater chance of nerve damage. Nerve damage can be permanent, so something to keep in mind.
Thank you..I am in my fourth week after surgery...only doing lowerbody with body weight only..did some jogging but did not feel good in my arm...your vedio is quit helpful...
56, 6 weeks post op, endobutton. Was in a cast for 2 weeks, now a sling. I have my own gym and have done no training with this arm but doing legs twice a week to have some sort of productive feeling
great video and very helpful, not a huge lifter but my sport of choice is boxing. ruptured mine 2 weeks ago during my bout now waiting for my surgery, feeling very heartbroken as you do. my brother did the same and made a full recovery as well, so it's good to see those on the other side. fun fact Deontay wilder has ruptured both his during his career. seems fairly common in combat sports to, did mine with a uppercut.
Great video Andy. Thanks for taking time to do this. I watched your previous videos in the series. I’m now at 6 months post op. I started doing direct biceps workout about 2 weeks ago with heavier weights and I’m getting more confident each day. I’m now at 80% of my pre-injury lift strength. I’ve made size gains on my biceps and triceps over the past few months but overall it’s still slightly smaller compared to my good arm. I’ve not done any pull ups or chin ups out of fear of rerupturing the tendon. Again thank you Andy for sharing your experience.
I just ruptured my right distal biceps tendon last night. Trying to navigate the VA because they don't want me to see a community care ortho for the surgery. I was 16 weeks out from my first strongman competition. Feeling really disheartened from all the progress I've made over the last year being set back. Thanks for making this video, it helped put things into perspective!
What a coincidence having it happen on May 7. Tore mine same date this year. Same grip. Also last set, and last rep of the workout. Had my surgery a week ago. Mine was on a 455lb deadlift, a weight I was very comfortable with and had been doing for years. 😐. Thanks for posting man it’s been killing me not working out but once I get this splint off I’m gonna start hitting leg machines, cardio, and abs. It’s encouraging to know there are other guys going through it or have already bounced back and recovered. I hope your training is still going well man.
Thank you, Andy. This is probably the most detailed video I’ve seen on this yet. I had a full distal tear as well and am 2 weeks post op. Feeling better everyday but I know its a long road ahead to full recovery. I’m fairly surprised at the large differences in post op protocol for roughly the first 6 weeks that I’m seeing in comparing different people’s experiences. For example, my splint came off at day 7 and i was put in a ROM brace with already some ROM allowed. With time there doesn’t seem to be much of a difference, as i will also only be allowed some light lifting around the 10-12 week mark.
On my second distal rupture. between insurance and Cleveland Clinic I'm at 6 weeks between injury and repair on the first, and a little longer on the second. So frustrating to wait so long for answers and action. I was coming from contest prep, so I'll have been a full year and a half away from upper body by the time I can lift again. First repair went great, but still very concerned about how long they are making me wait AGAIN. thank goodness i have such a great surgeon.
Thanks for the vid. I'm one week post op endo button on my left bicep. Did it wakeboarding. Just popped off from pulling on the rope to initiate a spin. Years of heavy weight lifting have taken it's toll on me. Last year tore my left pec lifting my arm up it just tore. No Pain No Gain is not a saying I live by now. Dr all ready has me in a brace and able to move my arm actually was told to move it just not rotate the wrist.
Just tore my right bicep 4 days ago, I'm covered by the VA too and when I went to the ER they were not urgent about surgery so I'm a little worried. I meet with the orthopedic next week though and will request surgery.
My research and conversations with some docs and PTs more or less revealed that surgery within 7-10 days of the rupture is preferred, but isn't necessarily an absolute. I'm sure a few extra days outside that window isn't gonna be a big deal. Perhaps if you waited for months to get it done it might be problematic but I doubt it'll take that long.
I just popped my distal tendon on Wednesday night. Got the MRI on Friday... so waiting to meet with a surgeon and find out if surgery is an option. Thank you for this video, four years later, info is still not easy to come by.
Thank you for the video Andy, I am 4 weeks post surgery and I have lost a lot of mass but this video was a big help on what to expect and what your experience was.
Happened to me just over a week ago and got the surgery last Friday. Mine happened moving a chest freezer. I have a month or so to go before I (hopefully) get out of the sling and onto rehab. Thanks for the video Andy. Great info.
Just had this surgery 10 days ago and I am doing well. Looking forward to getting 100 % of my strength back. This video was good for me to hear since you made the video after your 1 year anniversary. Thanks
I’ve had both mine done now due to rugby injuries same surgeon both times, he done a great job ugly scars but they work. Currently just started physio on left arm. My right arm is 100 percent took awhile to get mind muscle connection again so I look forward to working on my left arm
Hi,I'm 3 weeks past the surgery, you give me the information and motivation i needed, still waiting to see my surgeon,I was wondering if the exercises had started or should i wait for my appointment,great video, thanks.
Crazy, I had the same injury went through the same struggle, but I’m still able to train and fight professionally, if I could add anything, if you go through this remember the human body is a lot stronger than you can imagine, like I. The video I just wish I would of worked sooner on getting in shape.
Excellent video! I'm going through recovery on my second operation on my left arm. First surgery in January re-tore two months later. I had graft put in on the second surgery this past April and its been a slow process bouncing back.
I'm 4 weeks post OP. What do you feel caused the second tear? Did something suddenly happen that caused you to suddenly use your arm forgetting it was injured?
@@DelValleRecords1 Sorry to hear that. I still sleep in my brace because sometimes I chase baseballs in my sleep and also have PTSD from two douche bags trying to break into my apartment while I was sleeping in college so somethings I just flip over and thrash around. So I'm trying to be extra careful. Slowly getting stronger but still have to be careful.
Hey man,a message from Scotland.nice update and a run down of how your recovery went.I’m just two weeks after surgery and this has been very helpful for me to see there’s light at the end of the tunnel.a lot of information about your rehab and outlining what you did and need to do to.I did mine training throwing a lead right hook on the punch bag wrong with a straight arm.thanks bro
Unfortunately my operating didn't go so well as my surgeon wasn't professional as he said that my tendon was short to attach. I will be having another operation but now any time soon. Any advice? I live in Australia Thank you
Sorry to hear about your injury Richard. Unfortunately the details of the surgical procedures are way outside my expertise. From the reading I have done on the procedure there are instances where the end of the tendon is badly damaged and reattachment is very difficult or just not very strong. Hopefully you can find a decent surgeon....it's pretty basic as far orthopedic surgeries go so you don't need to find a guru or anything. Good luck
I’m 6 weeks post op, and I have tingling in my forearm, sore wrist and I cannot move my last three fingers I’ve only gained strength in my index and thumb I’m waiting on a nerve test to see if there’s any nerve damage. It’s been a mental challenge but staying positive
Thanks for sharing Andy. Last Aug.23rd I was playing with my kids at a park and ended up with a partial tendon rupture. I cant get in to see the ortho until Sept. 13th. I can do everything with my right arm but I cant do a curling motion with anything over 5lbs. The nurse said they want to go ahead and do surgery or the ortho may say just rehab it depending on the severity. I enjoy weight training myself and am currently on leave from work. It is tough mentally but I focus on my kids and the physical things I can do at the moment.
I'm in the same situation I could move my arm completely but I just had the surgery done today a little over three weeks from the injury which is the maximum time you should wait but my muscle was all shredded the doctor said it was challenging but it went well I hope I made the right decision. What did you end up doing? If you don't mind me asking
I’m at a month and a half since my surgery. It took 12 weeks to get my surgery done and my Dr. was able to attach my tendon without adding additional tendon. I was lucky! I have almost full range of motion, but I’m still unable to lift anything. I’m still icing it every day and Advil to reduce the inflammation. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for the advice. It has just happened to me. My doctor has given me the option of leaving it to heal, or get the surgery. I am not a weight lifter as such and greatly appreciate your video.
Wow this came on my RUclips feed and was happy to watch. I partially tore my bicep/forearm doing heavy bb rows but that day did it reverse grip and it happened. I immediately checked to see if it rolled up but it was still there. Over the week the bruising came in from my bicep to my wrist. Went to see the surgeon and he confirmed it was partial and that heavy weights should be stopped although I will find it hard to not go heavy anymore lol Started back to the gym this week slowly certain back exercises still pinch a bit on the bicep but it’s ok. High reps for now. Thanks for this video
I ruptured mine. Its passed 6 days since surgery I already do little things like fixing broken cars headlights plastic cover, fixing my bathroom shower and stuff like that lol. Hope I heal cleanly. Also the curatives are getting loose I somewhat am stretching the tenro
Any thought of working out after this procedure is out the window. The first 48 there’s pain and rest. Take it easy and be patient the gym will still be there at 6 weeks
Went to the walk in clinic right after the injury to get the ball rolling. I knew what had happened. I could hear the tendon tear. I am a week after injury. Surgery scheduled in three days.
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WITH A FULL BICEP TEAR WHO'S HAD THE INJURY A FEW YEARS HOW. BTW: I'm not yelling, I just capped everything to make my msg pop as I really am looking for answers. Thx
I had to fight with the va to get the surgery. 6 weeks I was very descriptive and explained I needed an MRI and no one believed me. They tried to get me to go to physical therapy first and I refused but the nurse wrote in my chart that I agreed with that plan. I had to use private insurance.
Hey Andy, I blew out my right bicep back in January, had the surgery done, your videos helped a ton! Unfortunately I am now 2 days post op after blowing out the left one!
I'm 0 years post op. Didn't even see a doctor due to no insurance, alcoholism and negligence of what the damage was. It's a long story but it still works. Deformed but working.
I am 8 days post surgery...And I appreciate you uploading this.......
How’s the outcome?
@@TheSantos173 I'm very happy. I'll feel occasional fatigue in that bicep but nothing life changing, still get a good pump and enjoy lifting just fine.
@@juggernaut8044 how are you lifting already 8 days posts surgery? Most ppl mention months of rehab
@@TheSantos173 Oh no, this is a reply to his video from 3 years ago! Hehe
i'm 3 days past surgery. At eight days could you turn wrist and Supinate?
amazing info.. I'm 2 weeks post op. Endobutton technique. I'm documenting my rehab process as well as my physio. Your videos have helped me a lot, and hope that I can return the favor for others here on youtube!
Right arm I babied after surgeryand it was probably full year before I regained all size and strength. Left arm I’m not even 4 months post op and expect to be close to 100 percent at 6 months. It’s scary but you will come back as strong as ever just be patient.
I just tore my right. Tore left last year.
What if you didn't do the surgery
Yesterday night during bench press torn my muscle too . today is my surgery.. good to know will get full strength back sooner or later
@@joellefrancis960 I’m reading conflicting info on whether to get the surgery or not. I go to the VA, so of course my Dr. was like you’ll be fine. I’m 39yo active male though, I want full use of my bicep…
@@newbluerugby i had the option of surgery i didn't do it i supplemented organic vitamin c vitamin d 50000 glucosamine zinc magnesium and 5 times 10 pills a day collagen and now 4 months later 90 % strength back
I'm 1 year post op here in east Texas and love lifting the hardest thing for me has been on the mental side, I think about that pop every rep. Thanks for the Video its encouraging that you've got back to the weight from before.
I know what you mean. I am afraid of that pop. 3 weeks post off. Double entry. Button repair.
I was climbing of the truck when I snapped it. God the pain. I fell hurt my pelvic hip and banged my head. Heavy cap on.
Told dispatcher at 22.00 hrs. All he was interested was who was doing the run. 450miles round trip two trailer drops.
Old school. 62 yrs old did the job finished at 10.00 in the morning and straight to hospital.. I'd like to thank my trucker mates for helping me change trailers.
Please god the next 4/6 weeks go quickly so I can get back to work. No insurance
I recently underwent bicep tendon surgery at the VA, and it was quite a different approach! Instead of a cast, they just put it in a sling for a couple of days. They encouraged me to move my arm freely, with some restrictions for the first month. After three months, I should be able to lift anything I want. The procedure involved two incisions, one in the forearm and another to reach the end of the bicep tendon. They needed the second incision because they couldn't reach the end of my biceps from the initial one, according to the doctor. It's not always necessary, but in my case, it was.
Thank you for this. Had to wait 17 days for my surgery but am now one week post op. Needed to hear all of this right now more than you know. Being out of the gym is the hardest part for me mentally. Itching to start pt.
It's a long recovery mate - the first 6 weeks immobilisation is awful. I just hit 12 weeks post-surgery and have full supination/pronation back finally (pronation took much longer). After the first two weeks of doing nothing I started going back to the gym (wearing the sling) just to do *something* with the other arm and leg presses etc. I then did super light free weights work (1-2kg) with the injured arm from weeks 6-12, still massive muscle wastage. Apparently can taper the weight back up gradually now for the next 12 weeks. They say 6-12 months for 'full' recovery, I'm aiming for 6... Good luck with your recovery!
@tchpandy iam three weeks post op. I live in the uk. I am starting physiotherapy on Monday. How long does this pain and numbness last in the arm
@@Peter-sl6mf Hey mate, I'd say 'it depends' as everyone will be different. I only had very mild numbness in the top of the forearm, and this only lasted about 8 weeks. Most of my pain was gone at 3 months, occasionally it'd have some mild discomfort.
Good luck getting started with physio (probably just assisted range of motion at this stage but it's important to get everything moving in a controlled manner) and your ongoing recovery!
@@tchpandy thank you for getting back to me Pandy.
I was on a real downer last Thursday I don't do depression but I was down with it for two days.
Quadruple heart bypass surgery last year off work for 7 months just getting back on my feet financially then 6 weeks ago slipped off the truck and snapped the tendon.
Yes good to hear the numbness and pain will end in another 4 weeks.
Are you glad you had the repair. Reading some other comments from patients they are doing OK.
My consultant said I didn't need it. I could function.with.20% loss of power in my arm. Iam 62 a truck driver. The consultant said I could go straight back to work. But my social outlet is the 🏋️♂️ gym.
Once again thank you for responding
@@Peter-sl6mfHi again mate, yes the mental side of it really knocked me around and ruined X-Mas/New Years/January/February. I am glad I had the surgery but it has been a very long 6 months. I am waiting for clearance for a full return to sport (indoor cricket) on Tuesday. I also wasn't allowed to drive for the initial 6 weeks as it had to stay in the splint/sling, perhaps rehab protocols treat this one differently in the UK? Anyway, there'll be small improvements for you each day, even though some days it'll give you aches/pains. Hang in there! -Andy
great video, helped me a lot during my recovery, I got a complete tendor tear during a deadlift (at 90% of my max) using alternate grip. Although Ib had been doing deadlifts like this for the past 13 years, I will never, ever again use alternate grip. I am now at month 3 after surgery and will start with hook grip little by little.
I tore my distal bicep tendon Sept 1 , 2020 Covid injury ..lol 61 year old retired Fire fighter and lifter , carpenter . My surgery went well and no nerve damage and used the sling for only a few days then I was able to complete a Kitchen Reno that I was working on prior to my injury . I had my cast removed this week and full range of motion after 4 weeks with only tenderness in the radial bone after the procedure ..get active and know your limits !! Good luck
@Andy Baker, thanks for the update. I echo your statement that continued training during recovery is a must. Full right distal biceps tendon rupture for me. Hyper-extended the elbow after making a mistake on a ring muscle-up. Endo-button repaired. I only took 10 days off of training post OP. I continued uni-lateral weight training and modified CrossFit 5 days per week beginning at day 12 post OP. Went into a ROM brace at 10 days post surgery and was allowed to begin physical therapy (PT) the same day. At week 2 post OP physical therapy consisted of blood flow restriction (legs) and close to FULL range of motion at the elbow, shoulders, wrists etc. Week 3 post OP and I’m allowed to actively activate my bicep by moving the arm from full extension to bent elbow. Week 3 also included dry needling with electric stimulation in the brachialus, bicep and forearm. I’m now in week 4 and rarely use the arm brace and am allowed to keep the arm safely moving and keep ROM active in the elbow, shoulder and wrist.
How's your arm now?
Thanks Andy, great vid. Im two weeks post surgery and this is just what im after. Im serving with the Australian Air Force and was lucky enough to have surgery the day after my injury (on gymnastic rings which i had no business being on as a 45 year old). I started back in the gym this week. Leg extensions and hamstring curls, bodyweight squats, one arm dumbbell press, and one arm pulls with cables.
Hi Brett would you mind if i ask who was your doctor. I'm planning for my second surgery but haven't found a good doctor. Cheers
I hope you are doing well! I thought that rings were good for joints and tendon health. May I ask specifically how you had that injury?
Super helpful. I go in tomorrow for my procedure. Good to know it’s not likely to be a whole 6 months before I can do anything. Obviously with caution.
Mine was basketball. Help defender got a hand on the ball and had an abrupt extension of the left arm as I tried to go to the basket.
Still, 6 weeks in a brace/sling :/
Thank you for the informative video Andy. I had surgery 3/23/22 and it's just like you mentioned. I'm glad I came across your video. At 53, I still work out somewhat, but my rupture came from lifting a TV set while moving, when I heard and felt the rupture. My trade is Cable Splicing so no choice but to undergo the surgery. You've laid it out just as it has gone thus far. I'm hitting the gym first thing tomorrow and plan to be back at work in a couple of months. Hoping all is good with you Bro. Thanks again.
Thanks for this. I'm 60 and tore my left one picking up a longboard surfboard on Waikiki Beach (on day one of vacation of course). I'm two days post surgery and feeling frustrated by not being able to do much for while (and the long road of recovery ahead), but your video has definitely encouraged me a lot. Thanks again. I hope to return to the same surfing spot someday for a "do over."
Having surgery next week. Answered a lot of my questions. Really appreciate you taking the time to do this video. Thanks.
I had It two months ago, my surgery, am reading this now....how is it evolving?
Amazing video. I really needed to hear everything you have said. I’m 4weeks post operation and it’s been a mental and physical rollercoaster. Appreciate this video
How are things going now? I'm 4 weeks post OP right now so you are a month ahead of me. I tore mine playing baseball. I bat right handed and it was my left bicep that tore when my arm was fully extended out.
@@BrianPhobos How has your recovery gone?
@@mattchew4161 Pretty decent. My arm feels more normal and all these lifts surrounding utilizing my bicep have been going up. Im up to 155lb on bench. Taking it easy. But 15lb dumbbell curls on that arm still feel heavy and it has been like that for a couple weeks. Also it is hard to flex that bicep. It is like it won't completely neurologically engage
3 weeks after op, no exercise, watched your video and started training tonight! Feel great! Even if it's just a few small leg movements and stomach. This was the best advise ever! Thank you!
Thanks, this injury happened to me. It’s painful and a lot of mental stress. Stay safe!!
Just tore my bicep on Tuesday and I just wanted to say thank you for making this video it was very helpful.
Had my operation yesterday. How is everything going?
@@mranderz going good I’m 4 weeks after surgery and I’m wearing a brace set to 60 degrees. Hope you have a speedy recovery
@@rjturner4742 thanks! No brace for me, just a cottonwrap and bandage wrapped outside. The pain was horrible day 1 and 2, got better day 3 and yesterday, day 4, i started some really light stretching. All without letting my biceps work at all of course. Without any pain i can almost get the arm all the way out to completely straight. I can rotate my palm about 100 degrees without any pain so all good so far! Yesterday i changed the wrapping and all looked good, 7 stitches. Will start exercise saturday, lightly, stationary bike, and legs, lots of legs :)
@@rjturner4742 This is the routines i follow www.google.se/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=www.chiropractic.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/111118-1_Chiro_62_3i_Wentzell.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwjqqZGe5NHxAhWQAxAIHYcVDRMQFnoECDUQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1h8vqdFTCPIbrtaA1NgtiY
Also some good info on the recovery.
@@mranderz that’s awesome I’m close to full extension and can rotate my wrist almost all the way. Hopefully won’t need the brace by next week. Keep up the good work and you’ll be 100 percent soon
Had operation yesterday, done it boxing, moving quickly and if dehydrated seem to be common, interesting also over 50 sportsmen seem to be vulnerable, good to see you are recovering well.
41yrs old, ripped it on my left arm this last Friday unloading tree logs from my truck bed. Completely unexpected. My 70yr old father was unloading them with me. He is fine, lol. Going to the docs this week. Hopefully they can fix me up like they were abe to for you. Thanks for the video! Really appreciate it!
Just had the surgery yesterday and ill be 41 tomorrow.. How did your recovery go?
Thanks brother. I just tore my left distal bicep tendon doing preacher curls. You’re into is invaluable
Did you get the surgery
Appreciate the video Andy. I had the same surgery 8 weeks ago. Tough mentally but the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter day by day.
Hello from the UK, just wanted to say thank you Andy for this video - wish i had seen this back in December! Just getting over my own bicep tendon rupture, did it using switch-grip on a deadlift and most likely my bad form (had gone for a PB) meant the bicep took the hit. Has been a tough few months, surgery went well, and have been back training a few weeks now. This video has really helped reassure me that I'm not moving too fast and that you can train sensibly and keep the ball rolling.
Did you rupture the LHB proximal biceps tendon? I have ruptured mine and have seen 2 consultants of which neither will do the operation as the risks outweigh the reward and it would purely be for aesthetic reasons. I'm also based in the UK. Would be grateful to hear where you had the op done, thanks.
@@samjarea hi - sorry to hear you've ran into this injury as well! i did my distal bicep tendon in, so where it joins the forearm. proximal is up by the shoulder isn't it? my bicep was like a limp balloon, and the doc managed to get me in just under the 2week window to get it fixed (happened right before the last bad covid wave last December, so was really touch and go). I ended up with two significant scars (as opposed to one) as they could only just about fix it, but was so relieved to get it sorted. Managed to get back training and on track again. I had my surgery at Rugby Hospital. Good luck!
@@samjarea very surprised if they aren't gonna sort the surgery out for you, as its a big injury to get over. I did get told if I was in my 60s + they normally don't risk the surgery, but its far more than aesthetics. I was really impaired whilst waiting for the surgery
@@badassdewi Thanks for getting back to me. Yeah, proximal is up by the shoulder. I had a 3rd consult today and the surgeon agreed to perform open subpectoral biceps tenodesis, even though in his opinion I should not have the surgery due to the risks.
@@samjarea fingers crossed they can sort it out for you, good luck !
Thanks for the detail. Outlining your personal experience and adding in the things you learned along the way should be very helpful. I am on day 3 post injury and should be getting surgery on day 12. The surgeon is the only one who seems to think this needs to be completed in days and not weeks. I am 54 and ruptured the left side scooping a trapeze artist back to the platform. It was more of a freak event than a heavy overload.
I tore mine Oct 11, 2019 changing a fricking tire LOL. Rehab taking awhile because I was released right about the start of the bloody COVID shutdown, open, shutdown again, just back in the gym 3 weeks now, can't believe how flabby my muscles have gotten. Looking forward to building back up. Thanks brother. Bill 50 year old
Thank you Andy. Going in Friday for surgery. Thank you for the video. Helps me so much and gives me a better idea what to expect.
I’m 56, weight lift and do cardio about 5x week for about 60-90 minutes very intensely and have a very nutritional diet. PT training in the U.S. Marines never got out of my lifestyle. While putting my mt. bike into the back of the SUV one handed in the supination grip, I heard the loud pop of my distal tendon rupture off my forearm bone. I was lucky to get surgery within 72 hours and had the “endobutton procedure” done by one of the best orthopedic sport surgeons (Dr. Laura Timmerman). I was one of the unlucky 3-4% who lose all mobility of my fingers which was very unnerving (pun intendoned). She said my radial nerve must have been stretched but she was adamant she was extremely cautious about this. Fortunately within a week I regained full feeling and mobility of my fingers. I’m mentioning this to ease anxiety if this happens to you. I have a high tolerance to pain but I will tell you after I got the immobilized splint off a week later my pain level was about an 8 early in the mornings then about a 3-4 the rest of the day until evening when it starts climbing again. I’m now a month post op and the pain level remains the same. I have numbness on my forearm but I can make a fist and squeeze really hard. I can fully extend my arm out but I certainly can’t twist open a doorknob or bottle top. I’m starting PT this week. So my question to anyone who has experienced this horrible injury is this. A month after the surgery are you at a pain level around 8 early in the morning like 3 or 4a.m.? So far Andy’s videos have been the most informative and most helpful above any other information I have heard. Thanks and may the rest of you have a speedy and full recovery! Semper Fi Andy!
@scottsantos255 Hey Scott - I know your post is a bit old, but wanted to see how things went sine this port you made. Hopefully, all is well.
Following
I'm a 62-year-old steel hauler. Doc told me there would be no PT. Still in the first week after surgery. He knows I will "get back" to full use. It's all about holding me back while it heals. It happened on the job, and this is just torture for a working man. Thanks for this video, and some idea on the recovery. Being old, but still quite active... it will obviously take a little longer, but I'm in it for the long run.
Don’t let the old man in
thanks for this! got my surgery 5 days ago - not a lifter but jiu jits injury- still useful info here. thanks.
I am 7 weeks post surgery. Just wondering on your thoughts on using Elbow sleeve or Arm compression sleeve when returning to the gym. Thanks for the videos
I am 1 week post surgery, was training in the gym, free weight preacher curls and I literally saw my left arms bicep snap and roll into a ball. Literally saw stars and was borderline scared thinking that my gym days would come to an end. I called my PT who is also my friend and he got me an appointment with the orthopaedic surgery team. I had my surgery on 09/30/24 and now recovering. I sit with hope to recover soon and regain my strength. Had so many home renovations scheduled and this unfortunate incident came along.
2 days post for me.... how are you doing? I'm in a splint/sling, first appointment is in a week. I pray to God they take the splint off, keeping my arm at a 90 for weeks on end sounds like the most horrible thing ever. How's your pain? I've been able to skip the pain meds thus far. 🤞🏼
@@ryanrolf-music163 I’m two weeks post surgery still in a sling will be starting physical therapy today. The sling is not so annoying for me as much as the nerve pain down at my wrist but the doctor say that that is normal and will pass off with physical therapy. Wish you a speedy recovery and get well soon.
@MrWilander88 thank you, good luck!
1 week out for me, just got the splint removed and got fitted for my brace today. It suck’s but gotta take it one day at a time. Very inconvenient but we’ll look back in 6-9-12 months and be surprised we got thru it, best of luck
@@Joed1191 good luck with the recovery my friend. Luckily I was not asked to wear a brace. I’ve got the sling for 6 weeks. Btw I just started with therapy yesterday and it was painful. But I was able to extend my arm a lot more than 90 degrees.
Hey man I just tore my bicep yesterday. I'm fairly sure it's a partial as I can do a hook test and hook the tendon with a little poking and I have some activation in the bicep, no "popeye"ing and I can supinate with some force (and pain). I'll go for imaging today or tomorrow - from what I can gather surgery is indicated with 50% or more of a tear. Anyhow, this vid was really great to see, broken down sensibly from my someone that wants to keep/add strength. Appreciate it.
Did you end up doing/needing surgery? My pre imaging diag sounds very similar
I tore my left distal bicep in 2012, and just tore my right in September of 2019!!!! Just started training again. Great video thanks for uploading
I tore my right distal bicep nov 2014, now here i am tore my left distal bicep yesterday 😭
JaYcBu113T damn bro good luck! Rest up heal quick
Bro just had my right side done just a question. How did you do your second one? Was it not warming up or you favour your good side so you loading more weights?
@@watlalalallala5524 it was poor technique.... trying to lift a piece of lawn equipment and I hyperextended my arm. Distal bicep tendon tour right off the bone.
Had the Endobutton repair 3 days ago on the left bicep due to flipping a tractor tyre once too many times for a 45 year old. Great to find this video. Looking forward to recovering and getting back training. No more tyre flipping though.
Thank you for this video. I am getting reattachment surgery tomorrow. You put a lot of my concerns at ease. Fortunately my surgeon is also a lifter and is not as conservative as a lot of doctors seem to be. But still the way you laid everything out is really helpful.
This was a fantastic video. It gives me some hope as I have my surgery tomorrow morning. Spent my entire life being super active and I was afraid that I would regress for ever. Ruptured it working as a Fireman when I missed a step in the smoke and caught myself when I fell weighting about 300 pounds with all of my gear.
Can you share an update please
@@MrsLP-ht8jy back to work, feeling great!
@firemedic114 I had surgery Monday. Extremely stiff and sore. Im hoping the pain decreases in the next week. Right now I can't turn hand palm up or move much
i’m 6 weeks post op. thanks for posting this video 💯
Appreciate your videos. 5 months post op and 54 year old lifter wanted to see someone who was getting back at it after the surgery. Gives me more confidence going forward.
How are you now. Going for surgery on Wednesday
I have fully recovered without limitation. I have to say my days of 50 an55 lbs dumbbell curls are behind me. More 40lbs X 20 reps. 4 sets. Not because of physical limitation more psychological. Good luck to you and give it time and patience.
@@Swear-uv8gq Thank you, I’m still fairly young, 23. Happened during a deadlift, def gonna take it easy for a while and am sure it’ll be psychological as well when I step under the bar again.
Thanks for this extensive update Andy. Currently on week 1 post op. Way to claw back. I'm noticing the same thing still... lack of information.
cross education training has been shown to help the injured side preserve muscle.
Thank you that was very useful I just got the same injury 3 days ago and going tomorrow to set up the surgery hopefully on Saturday
Had the same surgery. My doctor didn't tell me how long I should keep the sling. So I took it off the next day. I started working out about a week after my surgery. When I went back to the doctor for a follow up he couldn't believe that I was already moving that well without pain. It's been 3 weeks now and I'm doing dumbbell curls with about 2/3 the weight of the other arm. I know I started to soon probably and could have reinjure myself but by doing that I didn't lose any muscle mass.
Hi Andy. I appreciate your video. I learned quite a bit. I'm at 12 weeks post OP. I am 66 years young and joining a Gym this coming week. I appreciate your advice on exercises for my rehab. My main goal is getting back on the Golf Course and being as active as I was pre injury. If you have any further advice it will be appreciated. Have a great day and good luck in your endeavors.
ScottyD
Just got injured a few day ago, had lots of cross thoughts and questions, watching this video help me make the right decision! I really appreciate you taking the time to put this video together and uploaded to the site. It really makes a difference. For some of us that don't have the money to pay for the top doctors and/or rehab places your words bring us peace in these desperate moments! Once again THANK YOU SO MUCH for this video!!!
Did u get surgery
There are two button techniques. One is to drill through to the middle of the bone. The other is to drill through the bone completely. The problem with going through the bone completely is that there is greater chance of nerve damage. Nerve damage can be permanent, so something to keep in mind.
Thank you..I am in my fourth week after surgery...only doing lowerbody with body weight only..did some jogging but did not feel good in my arm...your vedio is quit helpful...
56, 6 weeks post op, endobutton. Was in a cast for 2 weeks, now a sling. I have my own gym and have done no training with this arm but doing legs twice a week to have some sort of productive feeling
great video and very helpful, not a huge lifter but my sport of choice is boxing.
ruptured mine 2 weeks ago during my bout now waiting for my surgery, feeling very heartbroken as you do.
my brother did the same and made a full recovery as well, so it's good to see those on the other side.
fun fact Deontay wilder has ruptured both his during his career.
seems fairly common in combat sports to, did mine with a uppercut.
After how long you got the surgery?? 2 weeks,3 weeks, 4 weeks ?? Also , how bad the rupture was ?
I just did this a couple of days ago and I am getting the surgery tomorrow
How’d it go bro
Great video Andy. Thanks for taking time to do this. I watched your previous videos in the series. I’m now at 6 months post op. I started doing direct biceps workout about 2 weeks ago with heavier weights and I’m getting more confident each day. I’m now at 80% of my pre-injury lift strength. I’ve made size gains on my biceps and triceps over the past few months but overall it’s still slightly smaller compared to my good arm. I’ve not done any pull ups or chin ups out of fear of rerupturing the tendon. Again thank you Andy for sharing your experience.
I just ruptured my right distal biceps tendon last night. Trying to navigate the VA because they don't want me to see a community care ortho for the surgery. I was 16 weeks out from my first strongman competition. Feeling really disheartened from all the progress I've made over the last year being set back. Thanks for making this video, it helped put things into perspective!
I am always amazed at people who thumbs down good videos and wonder why they didn’t like the video.
What a coincidence having it happen on May 7. Tore mine same date this year. Same grip. Also last set, and last rep of the workout. Had my surgery a week ago. Mine was on a 455lb deadlift, a weight I was very comfortable with and had been doing for years. 😐. Thanks for posting man it’s been killing me not working out but once I get this splint off I’m gonna start hitting leg machines, cardio, and abs. It’s encouraging to know there are other guys going through it or have already bounced back and recovered. I hope your training is still going well man.
Appreciate the video man, I’m going into surgery in a couple of days.
Thank you, Andy. This is probably the most detailed video I’ve seen on this yet.
I had a full distal tear as well and am 2 weeks post op. Feeling better everyday but I know its a long road ahead to full recovery.
I’m fairly surprised at the large differences in post op protocol for roughly the first 6 weeks that I’m seeing in comparing different people’s experiences. For example, my splint came off at day 7 and i was put in a ROM brace with already some ROM allowed. With time there doesn’t seem to be much of a difference, as i will also only be allowed some light lifting around the 10-12 week mark.
Going in for surgery Thursday for Left bicep Your vidio helped ease some concerns. Thank you.
On my second distal rupture. between insurance and Cleveland Clinic I'm at 6 weeks between injury and repair on the first, and a little longer on the second. So frustrating to wait so long for answers and action. I was coming from contest prep, so I'll have been a full year and a half away from upper body by the time I can lift again. First repair went great, but still very concerned about how long they are making me wait AGAIN. thank goodness i have such a great surgeon.
Thanks for the vid. I'm one week post op endo button on my left bicep. Did it wakeboarding. Just popped off from pulling on the rope to initiate a spin. Years of heavy weight lifting have taken it's toll on me. Last year tore my left pec lifting my arm up it just tore. No Pain No Gain is not a saying I live by now. Dr all ready has me in a brace and able to move my arm actually was told to move it just not rotate the wrist.
Yep, supination was harder and more painful than flexion actually.
Just tore my right bicep 4 days ago, I'm covered by the VA too and when I went to the ER they were not urgent about surgery so I'm a little worried. I meet with the orthopedic next week though and will request surgery.
My research and conversations with some docs and PTs more or less revealed that surgery within 7-10 days of the rupture is preferred, but isn't necessarily an absolute. I'm sure a few extra days outside that window isn't gonna be a big deal. Perhaps if you waited for months to get it done it might be problematic but I doubt it'll take that long.
I’m going for surgery next week and I’m scared AS F*** lol.. but watching this has kinda calm
Me down .. thank you mate 👊🏾
Great vid andy. Keep them coming mate
Excellent, informative and honest post. Many thanks from England! : )
Thanks for this. just had surgery 3 days ago (17 days after injury). Complete tear from arm wrestling my oldest son who finally beat me...
That's how mine got torn too.. I'm in pain 3 days after surgery it's miserable 😪
I just popped my distal tendon on Wednesday night. Got the MRI on Friday... so waiting to meet with a surgeon and find out if surgery is an option. Thank you for this video, four years later, info is still not easy to come by.
Did u get surgery
I did. It went well... 7 months later, it's feeling about 75% strength recovered.
@@MaNo0sss
Thank you for the video Andy, I am 4 weeks post surgery and I have lost a lot of mass but this video was a big help on what to expect and what your experience was.
Happened to me just over a week ago and got the surgery last Friday.
Mine happened moving a chest freezer.
I have a month or so to go before I (hopefully) get out of the sling and onto rehab.
Thanks for the video Andy. Great info.
Just had this surgery 10 days ago and I am doing well. Looking forward to getting 100 % of my strength back. This video was good for me to hear since you made the video after your 1 year anniversary. Thanks
It's been a year. How are you doing?
I’ve had both mine done now due to rugby injuries same surgeon both times, he done a great job ugly scars but they work. Currently just started physio on left arm. My right arm is 100 percent took awhile to get mind muscle connection again so I look forward to working on my left arm
Hi,I'm 3 weeks past the surgery, you give me the information and motivation i needed, still waiting to see my surgeon,I was wondering if the exercises had started or should i wait for my appointment,great video, thanks.
Crazy, I had the same injury went through the same struggle, but I’m still able to train and fight professionally, if I could add anything, if you go through this remember the human body is a lot stronger than you can imagine, like I. The video I just wish I would of worked sooner on getting in shape.
I had to wait 4 weeks, one week after surgery right now. Thank you, this vid makes me feel better
Did you get a cadaver like me?
I'm going to doctor tomorrow. It will be 6 week's post of. I started doing some push ups and light curls today.
Op
Excellent video! I'm going through recovery on my second operation on my left arm. First surgery in January re-tore two months later. I had graft put in on the second surgery this past April and its been a slow process bouncing back.
I'm 4 weeks post OP. What do you feel caused the second tear? Did something suddenly happen that caused you to suddenly use your arm forgetting it was injured?
@@BrianPhobos I didn't really do anything drastic. I could feel in hurt for some time again...
@@DelValleRecords1 Sorry to hear that. I still sleep in my brace because sometimes I chase baseballs in my sleep and also have PTSD from two douche bags trying to break into my apartment while I was sleeping in college so somethings I just flip over and thrash around. So I'm trying to be extra careful. Slowly getting stronger but still have to be careful.
@@BrianPhobos Just take your time...
@@BrianPhobos How did you tear yours?
Hey man,a message from Scotland.nice update and a run down of how your recovery went.I’m just two weeks after surgery and this has been very helpful for me to see there’s light at the end of the tunnel.a lot of information about your rehab and outlining what you did and need to do to.I did mine training throwing a lead right hook on the punch bag wrong with a straight arm.thanks bro
Unfortunately my operating didn't go so well as my surgeon wasn't professional as he said that my tendon was short to attach. I will be having another operation but now any time soon. Any advice? I live in Australia Thank you
Sorry to hear about your injury Richard. Unfortunately the details of the surgical procedures are way outside my expertise. From the reading I have done on the procedure there are instances where the end of the tendon is badly damaged and reattachment is very difficult or just not very strong. Hopefully you can find a decent surgeon....it's pretty basic as far orthopedic surgeries go so you don't need to find a guru or anything. Good luck
I’m 6 weeks post op, and I have tingling in my forearm, sore wrist and I cannot move my last three fingers I’ve only gained strength in my index and thumb I’m waiting on a nerve test to see if there’s any nerve damage. It’s been a mental challenge but staying positive
Thanks for sharing Andy. Last Aug.23rd I was playing with my kids at a park and ended up with a partial tendon rupture. I cant get in to see the ortho until Sept. 13th. I can do everything with my right arm but I cant do a curling motion with anything over 5lbs. The nurse said they want to go ahead and do surgery or the ortho may say just rehab it depending on the severity. I enjoy weight training myself and am currently on leave from work. It is tough mentally but I focus on my kids and the physical things I can do at the moment.
I'm in the same situation I could move my arm completely but I just had the surgery done today a little over three weeks from the injury which is the maximum time you should wait but my muscle was all shredded the doctor said it was challenging but it went well I hope I made the right decision. What did you end up doing? If you don't mind me asking
Very useful info. Thank you !!!
I’m at a month and a half since my surgery. It took 12 weeks to get my surgery done and my Dr. was able to attach my tendon without adding additional tendon. I was lucky! I have almost full range of motion, but I’m still unable to lift anything. I’m still icing it every day and Advil to reduce the inflammation. Thanks for the video!
How is ur arm doing now are u confident in ur arm already
How are you doing? Unfortunately I had to get a cadaver tendon. I had a 5 cm rupture.
Thanks for your help
I'm almost one week post-surgery. Appreciate your uploading this!
how was it?
@@billmelindagatesshots4all805 not bad at all.
Thanks man- I am 2 days post op looking for good news and a few pt tips for training athletes - I appreciate your perspective & experience
Thanks for the advice. It has just happened to me. My doctor has given me the option of leaving it to heal, or get the surgery. I am not a weight lifter as such and greatly appreciate your video.
Wow this came on my RUclips feed and was happy to watch. I partially tore my bicep/forearm doing heavy bb rows but that day did it reverse grip and it happened. I immediately checked to see if it rolled up but it was still there. Over the week the bruising came in from my bicep to my wrist. Went to see the surgeon and he confirmed it was partial and that heavy weights should be stopped although I will find it hard to not go heavy anymore lol
Started back to the gym this week slowly certain back exercises still pinch a bit on the bicep but it’s ok. High reps for now. Thanks for this video
Thank you for all the information, very Encouraging for sure
Thanks for this video. Definitely learned a few things about speeding up recovery safely.
I ruptured mine. Its passed 6 days since surgery I already do little things like fixing broken cars headlights plastic cover, fixing my bathroom shower and stuff like that lol. Hope I heal cleanly. Also the curatives are getting loose I somewhat am stretching the tenro
Any thought of working out after this procedure is out the window. The first 48 there’s pain and rest. Take it easy and be patient the gym will still be there at 6 weeks
Thank you
Went to the walk in clinic right after the injury to get the ball rolling. I knew what had happened. I could hear the tendon tear. I am a week after injury. Surgery scheduled in three days.
Awesome video! Really appreciate the content!
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WITH A FULL BICEP TEAR WHO'S HAD THE INJURY A FEW YEARS HOW.
BTW: I'm not yelling, I just capped everything to make my msg pop as I really am looking for answers. Thx
Great video, glad I came across this🙏
Appreciate your experience
Brilliant video. Really helps!
While watching this video, am going for surgery for proximal rupture. 😀
Thank you bro.
I had to fight with the va to get the surgery. 6 weeks I was very descriptive and explained I needed an MRI and no one believed me. They tried to get me to go to physical therapy first and I refused but the nurse wrote in my chart that I agreed with that plan. I had to use private insurance.
I had my surgery done earlier today. I’m also in a splint.
I had my right arm done today. I'm in a splint for 2 months
how long after injury did you get surgery? I'm a week after still no appointment
I had my surgery done 5 days after the initial injury.
@@billmelindagatesshots4all805 i had mine after 11 days. Today is day 1 after op
How are you now booster
Hey Andy, I blew out my right bicep back in January, had the surgery done, your videos helped a ton!
Unfortunately I am now 2 days post op after blowing out the left one!
Geez.....how did you rupture each of them??
@@andybaker2413 did the first one playing rugby. Did the other during max effort deadlifts! Complete nightmare but I'm on the mend!
@@s.cahill9701 Gonna have to learn the hook grip or convert to straps. Glad you're healing up. Good luck in your recovery
@@andybaker2413 double over hand with straps from now on!
Fairly sure hook grip is impossible with tiny child hands!! 😂😂
I'm 0 years post op.
Didn't even see a doctor due to no insurance, alcoholism and negligence of what the damage was.
It's a long story but it still works. Deformed but working.
How long ago did you injure?
Dis you lose a lot if strength and mobility?
I tore my distal 2 days ago and don't want to get surgery. I'm 53
Excellent breakdown. Thanks.