Surgery is never an easy decision, but it can become essential when conservative treatments like physical therapy or splints no longer provide the relief you need. Chronic hand pain can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming, affecting your independence and quality of life. Since your hands are among the most vital parts of your body for daily activities, restoring them to full functionality is key to regaining comfort and mobility.
Recovering from hand surgery, like any surgical procedure, requires patience and commitment. The healing process varies for each individual and depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, the severity of the condition, age, overall health, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. While surgery is a crucial step, it is just the beginning of your recovery journey.
Some discomfort is normal after hand surgery, but ongoing pain is not something you should have to endure. Understanding your recovery process and following post-operative instructions carefully is key to healing successfully and achieving the full benefits of your surgery. To help make your recovery as smooth as possible, we’ve outlined a few essential tips below:
- Follow Your Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed, including pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Avoid skipping doses or making changes to your medication schedule without first consulting your healthcare provider.
- Get Plenty of Sleep: While hand surgery may seem like a minor procedure, it’s still one that requires ample rest for healing. Not only does quality sleep improve your ability to cope with pain, but it also speeds up recovery and reduces discomfort.
- Keep Moving: Rest is essential after hand surgery, but avoiding prolonged inactivity is equally important to prevent stiffness. To maintain mobility and support your recovery, follow your doctor’s recommended exercises carefully and avoid activities that strain your hand until you’re cleared for more activity.
- Ice and Elevation: Swelling is common after surgery, but ice and elevation can help reduce it. Keep your hand elevated above heart level for 3-5 days, and apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to ease swelling and discomfort.
- Keep the Surgical Site Clean and Protected: Proper wound care is vital to prevent infection, which can worsen pain and slow healing. If your surgeon applies a dressing, follow their instructions to keep it clean and dry. When showering, use a plastic bag to protect the dressing.
- Wear Your Splint, Brace or Cast as directed: After surgery, you may be instructed to wear a prescribed splint, brace, or cast to immobilize and protect your hand during healing. Avoid removing it early unless directed by your healthcare provider. Before you shower, ensure the cast is fully covered with a plastic bag to keep it dry.
Remember, some pain is normal during healing, but contact your healthcare provider if you notice increased pain, swelling, signs of infections, or if your pain isn’t controlled by medication.
Find Relief from Hand Pain with Expert Care at FORM Fremont Hand Therapy
Undergoing surgery can be stressful, but knowing what to expect and how to care for yourself afterward can ease the process. At Fremont Hand Therapy, we prioritize your aftercare and strive to make your recovery as simple and smooth as possible. We’ll guide you through every step with clear, easy-to-understand instructions and encourage you to ask any questions before your surgery so you’re fully prepared. And if any concerns arise during your recovery, we’re just a phone call away, ready to provide the support you need.
At Fremont Hand Therapy in Fremont, our experienced hand surgeons offer both conservative treatments and advanced surgical solutions for a variety of hand and wrist conditions. If persistent hand pain is preventing you from enjoying the activities you love, we’re here to help. Call us today at (510) 350-3030 to schedule an appointment and explore your treatment options for lasting relief. You can also fill out our online contact form to get started!
Sources:
https://www.assh.org/handcare/blog/post-surgery-wound-care
