Hand surgery is a medical practice that involves diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating conditions and injuries to the hands, fingers, and wrists. It serves a range of purposes, from managing carpal tunnel syndrome and to correcting congenital deformity.
Completing any surgery can be stressful, and it’s important to know what to expect and how to care for yourself post-surgery. Follow this guide to understand what you can expect after hand surgery, the best way to nurse your hand back to form, and when to contact a surgical recovery care team or professional.
What to Expect After Hand Surgery
Of course, the specifics of the recovery process will vary depending on the specific type of hand surgery you have. However, in general, you can expect a recovery process to consist of the following elements:
- After the surgery, your surgeon will apply a dressing to the area to help the wound heal properly and keep bacteria out.
- You will receive pain medication and an instruction sheet for how to care for your hand while recovering.
- Your hand may be numb or painful for up to a week or longer.
- Furthermore, you may experience stiffness, weakness, or look and feel of the hand.
- Finally, you can expect a full recovery time of six weeks, although this will also potentially vary based on the kind of surgery you underwent.
Caring for Your Hand After Surgery
After your surgery, you’ll need to be diligent and careful in order to ensure the full recovery of your hand. Here are some a number of rules to follow to help ensure the best outcomes:
1. Change Your Dressings Frequently
Post-surgery wounds can be vulnerable to bacteria, so be sure to change your dressing according to the instructions provided by your surgeon. To ensure a safe and sterile recovery, always use clean hands and sterile dressing to prevent infection.
2. Regain Motion Regularly
Once your surgeon gives you the all-clear, you should start regular exercises to regain your hand’s range of motion. Simple stretching and strength training exercises can help you make a smooth transition back to full-time use of your hand. Just make sure to start slowly and work up to more extensive movements gradually.
3. Carefully Use Your Hand
You can’t entirely avoid using the affected hand, but you should plan to use it carefully and in moderation. Be sure to avoid activities that put excessive pressure on the surgical area, and if you must carry something heavy, use your other hand. This is also a good time to invest in or make use of hand stabilization devices, such as a brace.
4. Use Ice and Elevation to Manage Swelling and Pain
Pain relief post-surgery is common, and using ice or contralateral hand elevation can help manage swelling and eliminate any discomfort. You should ice the wound for 20 minutes at a time and then give the area two hours to rest before icing again.
5. Pay Attention to Diet and Hydration
Make sure to stay hydrated and well-nourished after surgery to support wound healing. Protein is an essential macro nutrient, so make sure to focus your diet around high-protein foods such as lean meats, fish, dairy products, and legumes.
When to Contact a Professional
If you notice any problems during your recovery period, be proactive in seeking help from a surgical recovery care team. Some common red flags that indicate the need to assess the situation further include severe pain, a sudden increase in swelling, drainage from the incision area, or a fever.
With the right care, you can expect to make a safe and quick recovery from your hand surgery and return to your favorite activities. Now that you understand what goes into post-operative care for hand surgery, you can take the appropriate steps to get your hands in the best shape.