Tendon Repair in Hilo, HI
Tendons connect muscles to bones and make movement possible. When a tendon is torn or ruptured, you may lose strength and the ability to move a finger, bend an elbow, or push off with your foot. At Peter A. Matsuura, MD., Dr. Peter A. Matsuura performs tendon repair of the hand, elbow, ankle, and foot in Hilo, HI to restore function and help you return to your normal activities.
Common Tendon Injuries We Treat
- Hand and finger tendons – flexor and extensor tendon injuries from cuts, crush injuries, or jamming a finger, including mallet finger
- Elbow tendons – distal biceps tendon ruptures and chronic tendon damage related to tennis elbow
- Ankle tendons – Achilles tendon ruptures and peroneal tendon tears
- Foot tendons – posterior tibial tendon problems that can lead to flatfoot
Signs of a Tendon Injury
A tendon injury may cause sudden pain, a popping sensation, swelling, bruising, weakness, or the inability to move a joint normally. For example, an Achilles tendon rupture often feels like being kicked in the back of the heel, and a finger tendon injury may prevent the finger from straightening or bending.
Why Prompt Treatment Matters
Many tendon injuries are best repaired soon after they happen. When a torn tendon is left untreated, it can pull back and scar, making repair more difficult. If you suspect a tendon injury, schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Dr. Matsuura will perform a physical exam and may use in-office X-rays to check for related bone injuries.
Treatment Options
Some partial tears and certain tendon injuries can heal with splinting, casting, or a walking boot, followed by guided exercises. Complete ruptures or injuries that affect function often require surgical repair, in which Dr. Matsuura reattaches the tendon ends or secures the tendon back to the bone.
Recovery After Tendon Repair
After surgery, the repaired tendon is protected with a splint, cast, or brace while it heals. A carefully progressed rehabilitation program helps restore motion and strength without overloading the repair. Full recovery can take several months, depending on the tendon involved.
We also treat trigger finger, sprains and strains, and bunions. Call (808) 969-3331 to schedule an evaluation or view all of our orthopaedic services.
Tendon Repair FAQs
How do I know if I tore a tendon?
Signs include sudden pain, a popping sensation, swelling, bruising, weakness, and difficulty moving the affected joint.
Can a torn tendon heal on its own?
Some partial tears heal with immobilization and rehabilitation, but complete ruptures often require surgical repair to restore function.
How soon should a torn tendon be repaired?
Many tendon injuries are best repaired soon after the injury, before the tendon retracts and scar tissue forms.
What tendons does Dr. Matsuura repair?
Dr. Matsuura repairs tendons of the hand, elbow, ankle, and foot, including finger tendons, the distal biceps, and the Achilles tendon.
How long does recovery take after tendon repair?
Recovery often takes several months and depends on the tendon repaired and your rehabilitation progress.
Will I need to wear a cast or brace?
Yes. The repair is usually protected with a splint, cast, boot, or brace during early healing.
Is physical therapy needed after tendon repair?
Yes. A guided rehabilitation program is important for safely restoring motion and strength.