Olecranon Fracture Repair Rehab Protocol

Keys to a Successful Outcome

  • It is very important that the incision heal first before any substantial motion of the elbow is initiated.  If the incision opens up, you will be able to say hello to your olecranon because it is right below the skin.

  • Understand that, on average, a patient will be 7 degrees short of full extension (range -5 to 40 degrees).  This is considered a successful outcome.

  • Do not lift weight until the fracture has healed on x-rays.

Phase
Brace
ROM
WB
Exercises
Weeks 0-2
Wear at all times*
PROM/AAROM; Goal: 15-105°
NWB
AAROM Elbow flex, PROM elbow ext; Grip exercises; isometric elbow/wrist strengthening.
Weeks 2-6
D/c brace on week 5
AAROM/AROM; Goal: 0-135°
PWB
Continue ROM exs; Begin light isotonic strengthening of flexion; Full ROM should be achieved by end of week 6.
Weeks 7-12
None
FAROM
WBAT
Begin AAROM supination/pronation (Full ROM by end of week 8); Progress isotonic elbow strengthening exs; begin Elbow Ext ex**.

 

*May remove for hygiene and exercises

**Elbow Extension exercises may begin once bony union is evident on x-ray/per physicians discretion

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