A Rancher’s Resilience: Overcoming a Biceps Tendon Tear
Leo Causland, a determined 65-year-old rancher from Summit County, Colorado, has spent decades tackling the physically demanding work that ranching requires. He’s built his life around strength and resilience, but two months ago, his body faced a challenge even his hard-headed, can-do spirit couldn’t push through.
One day, while lifting his trusty blue heeler dog into the truck, Leo felt a sudden and severe pain shoot through his left arm. “It was the kind of pain that brought me to my knees,” he recalls. That pain stopped him in his tracks, disrupting his daily ranch work. It was clear to Leo that something was seriously wrong.
After reaching out to Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON), Leo was promptly referred to Dr. Terrell Joseph, who diagnosed him with a complete biceps tendon tear. “Dr. Joseph explained that my tendon had torn clean off my arm. Then he asked, ‘What are you doing tomorrow?’ because surgery was the best way to fix it,” Leo recalls. Just a day later, Leo was scheduled for surgery at the Dillon Surgery Center.
A biceps tendon tear occurs when the tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder or elbow is damaged, often due to overuse, trauma, or heavy lifting. In Leo’s case, the tendon tore entirely, resulting in excruciating pain and a loss of strength. Without treatment, a torn biceps tendon can lead to permanent weakness, limited range of motion, and difficulty with everyday tasks. Leo was fortunate to get immediate care.
Reflecting on the surgery, Leo was nothing short of impressed. “The surgery center was amazing, and the staff were incredible,” he says. “I went in, had the surgery, and was told not to use my arm for eight weeks. But I’m way ahead of schedule.”
By his second follow-up appointment with Dr. Joseph, Leo’s recovery had exceeded expectations. “At the second appointment, I was already using my arm for most things,” he beams. “I even went elk hunting last week. Dr. Joseph is the first surgeon I’ve had a great experience with.”
Leo attributes much of his successful recovery to Dr. Joseph’s expertise and compassionate care. “I’d give him ten stars if I could,” he says. “I’ve been telling all my friends and family about him. He’s that good.”
Though his biceps tendon is well on its way to full healing, Leo is already discussing his next steps with Dr. Joseph—this time, for his knees. “After some X-rays, we found out there’s nothing left in my knees. Both need to be replaced, but for now, Dr. Joseph gave me cortisone shots to help with the pain,” Leo explains.
From fixing his arm to helping him manage his knee pain, Leo couldn’t be more grateful for the care he’s received. “I’ve never had a better experience with a surgeon. Dr. Joseph is like talking to an old friend,” Leo says with gratitude.
There are no guarantees of outcome. All surgeries involve the risk of major complications. Before you decide on surgery, discuss treatment options with your doctor. Understanding the risks of each treatment can help you make the best decision for your individual situation. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits. Only your doctor can determine the appropriate treatment for your situation. The clinical information and opinions, including any inaccuracies expressed in this material by patients or doctor are not necessarily those of Terrell Joseph, MD and should not be considered as substitute for medical advice provided by your doctor.