Total Elbow Arthroplasty

University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery

Weight-Bearing

NWB surgical UE

Key Restrictions

Nothing heavier than a cell phone; no pushing up from chair with surgical arm; no resistance strengthening until 8 weeks; max 1-2 lbs resistance; LIFETIME lifting limit <5 lbs

Timeline & Phases

Phase 1 (0-2 wks): posterior long arm splint, finger AROM; Phase 2 (2-6 wks): hinged or custom static EO vs. sling, AROM elbow/wrist/forearm; Phase 3 (6-12 wks): resistance up to 1-2 lbs from week 8, functional activities within lifetime lifting restriction

Notes

LIFETIME lifting restriction <5 lbs; accept elbow flexion contracture <20° as outcome goal; hinged EO full time including sleep; no resistance strengthening before 8 weeks

Published

09/2024