If you have been recommended to undergo a carpal tunnel release surgery, you might be wondering what will happen during and after the surgery. Going to surgery and having it done are relatively easy processes, albeit the anxiety. This is why it’s important to know what happens after, which is when it’s all up to you and your loved ones to care for it until it’s fully recovered.
In this article, we will talk about what you can expect after the surgery and how you can care for the operation site for it to heal completely.
What Happens After The Surgery
After the procedure, your wrist will be in a heavy bandage or a splint for one to two weeks. Your doctor will schedule another appointment to remove the bandage or splint, and during that time, you will be asked to move your fingers regularly to prevent stiffness.
It’s natural to feel hesitant to move your fingers post-surgery, but it is encouraged. Moreover, it is normal to feel pain in your hand and wrist, especially during the recovery period. If it gets uncomfortable, you will be prescribed oral medications, and you will be asked to keep the hand elevated while sleeping at night, as this can help reduce the swelling.
When The Bandage Or Splint Is Removed
Once it is removed, you will need to undergo a physical therapy program where you will learn motion exercises to improve wrist and hand movement. Physical therapy is highly recommended during this period to speed up the healing process and strengthen your hand.
Keep in mind that the recovery period post-surgery will take a few days to a few months. For this reason, you need to adjust your schedules, especially when you have plans to go back to work while you’re still recovering. If possible, take as much time off from work as possible so that you can maximize this off-work period.
What Happens After A Few Months To A Year
After a couple of months, specifically, six to eight weeks, keep in mind that you may still experience soreness in your palm or sensitivity to deep pressure or touch. This is normal, and despite these, you can still do your daily tasks and even participate in sports.
After a year, your grip and hand strength will be back to normal. Some patients experience the full restoration of their grasp and hand strength within two to three months after surgery, but it can take up to a year to fully recuperate for some. At this point, you will be able to receive all the benefits of a carpal tunnel release surgery.
Conclusion
It may be daunting to undergo a carpal tunnel release surgery, but rest assured that it will restore your life quality. Knowing what to expect post-surgery is essential, even before you have it, because this will help you manage your expectations and ease your anxiety levels. When you know what to expect and what you should do after the surgery, you will be more confident when you’re on the operating table.
The good news is that carpal tunnel syndrome is treatable. For this reason, if you think that you have it, it’s essential to consult an orthopedic surgeon immediately. The sooner you begin the treatment, the better chances of preventing long-term damage to the median nerve.
If you want to consult a hand surgeon in Jacksonville, FL, you have come to the right place. Our specialists at North Florida Hand and Wrist are highly-trained hands and wrists surgeons who will provide you with the best care possible. Get in touch with us today to make an appointment!
