how long does a torn tendon in the elbow take to heal?

Question

the doctors think i tore a tendon in elbow. it is a minor tear. how long will it take to heal? it is pretty painful and initially was bruised and swollen. i injuried it a week ago. it is no long bruise and swollen but it still hurts and i can't straighten it or bend it.

when i went to the ER, they took x-rays to make sure it wasn't broken. they said that i probably had minor tendon tears. they didn't give any exercises...just said to use a sling as long as it hurt. should i go to an orthopedic surgeon? we have insurance...but i don't really have time

i'm going to a chiropractor for ultrasound and laser treatments. they haven't given me any exercises. they said i could go to a physical therapist but i have to get a doctor's referal. is it worth it? the chiropractor doesn't seem to think i should go to the orthopedic surgeon. he can't say how long until it heals. he says that is varies in each person. any suggestions?

Answer 1

'Soft tendon' injuries can take longer to heal than a small bone, usually a month to six weeks, depending on how much you use it. You should have been told to apply ice, and heat to help with the circulation and any swelling. Other than that, and Ibuprofen for the inflammation and discomfort, you need to be patient with it. You could turn it into a BIG tear if you over- -do with it. Good Luck!

Answer 2

I didn't tear a tendon, but 'hyper-extended' one in my foot. It hurt for about 4 weeks but I still get some bother with it now, 14 years on.

Answer 3

C'mon Pinky, I don't do crystal ball stuff very well.....

What did the DOCTORS say???

What exercises did the doctors give you to do???

Or did they prescribe physical therapy???

Are they going to do arthroscopic surgery to repair it???

Answer 4

it takes a long time for it to heal, you shouldn't use it for a while. sorry