Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery - Post Surgery Care Advice

Summary

In this informative video, Wally, an occupational therapist from NUH, provides essential guidance on post-operative care following carpal tunnel release surgery. He outlines the recovery timeline, emphasizing the importance of hand elevation, pain management, and wound care. Wally encourages light daily activities and introduces tendon gliding and nerve gliding exercises to aid recovery. He discusses scar management and activities to avoid in the initial weeks, ensuring a clear understanding of how to promote healing and regain strength. For further information, viewers are directed to consult their healthcare providers or visit the NUH website.

Takeaways

• 😀 Recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery takes about 3 to 4 months, with full strength returning in up to a year.
• 😀 Elevate your hand above heart level to reduce swelling and discomfort post-surgery.
• 😀 Follow your doctor's instructions for pain management and wound care to prevent complications.
• 😀 Keep your bandage clean and dry, and consult your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms.
• 😀 Light daily activities, such as eating and dressing, are encouraged to aid recovery.
• 😀 Return to work can vary: 1-2 weeks for desk jobs, 3-4 weeks for jobs requiring water exposure or heavy lifting.
• 😀 Perform tendon gliding exercises regularly to prevent stiffness and promote healing.
• 😀 Begin scar massage 1-2 days after stitches are removed to improve flexibility and reduce pain.
• 😀 Avoid activities that require heavy gripping or exposure to contaminants for at least two weeks post-surgery.
• 😀 Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recovery expectations and care instructions.

Q & A

What should I expect in terms of recovery time after carpal tunnel release surgery?

Recovery typically takes about three to four months, with full strength returning in up to one year.

How can I manage swelling after surgery?

To reduce swelling, elevate your hand above heart level when walking or sitting, and use pillows to elevate it while sleeping.

What should I do if I experience increased pain or unusual symptoms post-surgery?

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as faintness, chest pain, nausea, high fever, or changes in the color of your hand.

When can I return to work after the surgery?

If your job involves computer work, you might return in one to two weeks. However, jobs requiring heavy lifting or exposure to water may require three to four weeks off.

What types of exercises can I do to aid recovery?

You can perform tendon gliding exercises and wrist movements to help reduce adhesions and improve mobility. Aim for three sets of exercises daily.

How should I care for my surgical wound?

Keep the bandage clean and dry. Follow your doctor's instructions and seek medical advice if you notice any signs of infection.

What is scar massage, and when should I start it?

Scar massage helps improve flexibility and reduce pain in the scar tissue. Start one to two days after your stitches are removed.

Are there any activities I should avoid after surgery?

Yes, avoid activities that require tight gripping or heavy lifting, as well as soaking your hand in water for at least two weeks post-surgery.

What are the signs of potential complications after surgery?

Watch for symptoms like severe pain at the wound site, color changes in the hand, or symptoms of a blood clot, such as leg pain.

How does carpal tunnel syndrome affect finger numbness?

Finger numbness results from nerve injury due to prolonged compression. While surgery alleviates compression, recovery of the nerve can take weeks to months.