Biceps Tenodesis / Tenotomy Recovery Guide
Biceps tenodesis anchors the biceps tendon to bone; tenotomy releases it. Both usually involve a short sling period and limits on elbow flexion strengthening early. Less restrictive than cuff repair, but not unrestricted.
Prepared by Be Recovery Ready. Clinical content by Kyle Macri, DPT, FAAOMPT and Steve Lucci, PT (30+ years combined orthopedic experience).
Last reviewed: 2026-07-21
Shoulder recovery · Full recovery guide
Last reviewed 2026-07-21
Biceps Tenodesis / Tenotomy Recovery Guide
Biceps tenodesis anchors the biceps tendon to bone; tenotomy releases it. Both usually involve a short sling period and limits on elbow flexion strengthening early. Less restrictive than cuff repair, but not unrestricted.
Prepared by Be Recovery Ready. Clinical content by Kyle Macri, DPT, FAAOMPT and Steve Lucci, PT (30+ years combined orthopedic experience).
Recovery timeline checklist
General milestones aligned with common hospital discharge education and orthopedic rehab phases. Your surgeon's written protocol always takes priority.
Week 0–1
- Sling as directed; gentle hand/wrist motion.
- Ice; keep wounds clean.
- No lifting with the surgical arm, even light bags.
- Pendulums only if specifically allowed.
Weeks 1–4
- Wean sling per protocol; begin PT for shoulder/elbow motion.
- Active elbow flexion without resistance may start when allowed resistance waits.
- Driving when you can safely control the vehicle off narcotics.
- Desk work often resumes earlier than after cuff repair.
Weeks 4–8
- Gradual strengthening when tenodesis healing allows.
- Avoid heavy pulling/chin-ups until cleared.
- Tenotomy patients may notice cosmetic change. Function is the focus.
- Report cramping or sharp groove pain that worsens with load.
Weeks 8–12+
- Return to gym lifting with staged loads.
- Overhead athletes follow sport-specific progressions.
- Full duty manual work needs strength milestones.
- Long-term: balanced shoulder and scapular strength.
How home setup supports recovery
Everyday challenges — mobility, bathing, dressing, sleep, and more — often drive what you need at home. These categories group commonly recommended equipment around those functional needs.
Short-term sling
Often needed days to a few weeks. Confirm rather than assuming cuff-repair duration.
Ice
Portal swelling responds well to planned ice after activity.
Load management
Reusable shopping bags on the non-operative shoulder prevent accidental biceps loading.
Commonly recommended items
Included in your kit
- Shoulder Abduction PillowHow-to guide
- Dressing Stick with Shoehorn
- Cold Pack WrapHow-to guide
Frequently asked questions
Tenodesis vs tenotomy what changes for me at home?▾
Home gear is similar. Tenodesis protects an anchor with lifting limits; tenotomy may show a Popeye change but often similar early restrictions on resisted flexion.
When can I do biceps curls?▾
Only after clearance, often many weeks. Early resisted flexion stresses tenodesis healing.
Do I need a shower chair?▾
Usually no unless balance is impaired or other surgeries were combined.
How soon is desk work realistic?▾
Often within days to two weeks if pain is controlled and you are not in a full-time sling.
Is this guide a substitute for my surgeon’s orders?▾
No. This is patient education to help you plan equipment and home setup. Always follow your surgeon and physical therapist’s written protocol.
Tenodesis vs tenotomy what changes for me at home?
Home gear is similar. Tenodesis protects an anchor with lifting limits; tenotomy may show a Popeye change but often similar early restrictions on resisted flexion.
When can I do biceps curls?
Only after clearance, often many weeks. Early resisted flexion stresses tenodesis healing.
Do I need a shower chair?
Usually no unless balance is impaired or other surgeries were combined.
How soon is desk work realistic?
Often within days to two weeks if pain is controlled and you are not in a full-time sling.
Is this guide a substitute for my surgeon’s orders?
No. This is patient education to help you plan equipment and home setup. Always follow your surgeon and physical therapist’s written protocol.
Community
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