Recovery can take 9 months to one year if the patient undergoes the Tommy John procedure, as it is a complex surgery. Patients with extremely serious injuries may have to wait even longer to achieve complete recovery. Their elbow will be placed in a hinged brace to gradually increase the range of motion until they can fully extend it.
If the patient plans to return to throwing and compete, they will need more rigorous physical therapy to strengthen their elbow enough to handle the stress. It is essential to remember that everyone recovers at their own pace, and the return to sports should not be rushed. Too much stress before the patient heals can increase the risk of surgery failure.