Some pain immediately after surgery is normal, but if your pain doesn’t start to fade over time or respond to pain meds — it may be time to contact a doctor.

Experiencing some pain in the weeks immediately after a tendon repair surgery is common. The expected amount of pain can depend on factors such as the exact surgery technique used and which tendon is affected.

But pain that doesn’t get better after a few weeks or that occurs alongside symptoms such as increased swelling, changes to your surrounding skin, and decreased range of motion can signal a surgical complication.

It’s common to experience some pain after tendon repair surgery. For many people, the first 2 to 3 days are the most painful. Symptoms such as tenderness, weakness, and swelling are also typical during this time.

As your body heals, pain lessens. Most people will experience less pain as the days of the first month pass, but it’s common for some pain and stiffness to remain for 6 to 10 weeks. This lingering, mild pain is normal and not a bad sign.

But pain that doesn’t fade or that gets worse in the weeks following surgery could be a signal that you’re experiencing a surgical complication. Complications of tendon repair surgery can include:

Tendon repair failure is a complication that occurs when your affected tendon breaks or splits. It can happen in the weeks directly following surgery because this is when your tendon is still weak. Incidents such as trips and falls can cause tendon repair failure.

Symptoms of tendon repair failure can include:

  • a sudden snapping sensation
  • a popping sound or sensation
  • a loss of motion
  • pain in the affected tendon
  • joint instability

A second surgery can help correct a tendon repair failure.

Some pain after tendon repair surgery is normal. A doctor can let you know what your healing timeline will look like. Make sure to follow the advice of the surgical team closely to avoid damaging your healing tendon.

Many people will also have physical therapy after tendon repair surgery. Your physical therapist can also help guide you through healing and can answer questions about any pain you experience.

Sometimes, pain after tendon repair surgery can be a symptom of a more serious complication. It’s best to contact a doctor if you have pain after your surgery that:

  • isn’t relieved with medication
  • gets worse over time
  • is accompanied by a fever
  • is accompanied by tingling or weakness in your fingers or toes

Additional symptoms to contact a doctor about after tendon repair surgery include:

How long does it take a tendon to reattach or heal?

Full healing can take up to 2 to 3 months.

The exact timeline for tendon healing will depend on factors such as the exact tendon and exact technique the surgeon uses, as well as on your health and age. Additional factors, such as physical therapy, will also affect your healing and tendon reattachment.

Generally, healing is faster for smaller tendons treated with less invasive techniques than for invasive procedures on large tendons.

There are multiple options that can help manage pain after tendon surgery. A doctor and physical therapist will help create the best pain management for you. Common options include.

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): A doctor might recommend or prescribe NSAIDs to help manage your pain.
  • Opioid pain relievers: Opioid pain relievers are sometimes a temporary pain relief management option.
  • Physical therapy: Physical therapy exercises will help you regain strength and can reduce pain.
  • Splinting and casts: It’s common to wear a splint or cast in the weeks following a tendon repair surgery. This can help with stability and managing your pain.
  • Ice and heat: Using ice or heat to take down swelling can help reduce pain.
  • Rest: It’s important to get enough rest after any surgery. A doctor and physical therapist will let you know how much rest is best for you.

It’s common to experience some pain in the days and weeks following a tendon repair surgery. The amount of pain can depend on factors such as the tendon and surgical technique used. Having some pain isn’t a cause for concern.

But pain that gets worse over time or that goes along with additional symptoms, such as a fever or changes to your skin, could be a symptom of a postsurgical complication. It’s important to let a doctor know if you experience these symptoms.