Recovery from wrist surgery is a straightforward process; but following the wrist surgeons directions is key to proper and efficient healing. Make an appointment with one of our specialists at North Texas Health Center in Dallas if you feel you may have injured your wrist and are suffering pain.
There are a few precautions you must take following wrist surgery.
Typically, wrist surgery is accompanied by certain guidelines for post-operative care. It involves wearing a splint or cast, physiotherapy, or taking pain medication.
Recovery following wrist surgery.
When surgery is completed on the chief hand, the recovery period is typically more extended than usual. Recovery, including occupational therapy, takes between three and four months, but it may take up to one year for a person to restore full hand strength. Schedule an arrangement with one of our specialists at North Texas Health Center in Dallas, TX if you have any inquiries.
The distal radius fracture is the most frequent type of bone fracture, and it often occurs when a person tries to catch themself after falling. Following wrist surgery or a significant fracture, physical treatment is required for the majority of patients.
Tips for recovery after wrist surgery.
- Take enough rest
Rest is important following surgery on the wrist or hand. Keeping your hand and wrist elevated over your heart will reduce swelling and pain. Piling pillows on your bed, sofa, or chair can help. Your ability to perform daily activities will be severely limited, especially during the first week following surgery. - Elevation is important
Raise your hand if you wish to decrease the amount of swelling. As a result, it is imperative to maintain an elevated position throughout the day and night. Patients should never lay their hands flat on their sides for an extended period.
When seated, use two to three pillows to support the arm in the lap, and when sleeping, keep the arm elevated on two pillows above the level of the heart. Our wrist surgeons in Dallas instruct utilising a sling for lifting functions, particularly in public. However, you should be aware that excessive sling use may result in the unnecessary elbow and shoulder stiffness. - Utilize medication to alleviate the pain
See your physician before taking any pain medicine, as many analgesics can cause dangerous drug interactions. You should avoid using aspirin if you have anemia or asthma. If you do not suffer from any of these illnesses, it is safe for you to use aspirin. The duration of over-the-counter pharmaceutical use should not exceed ten days unless otherwise directed by a medical expert. - Arrange for helpers
Remember that you will be forced to perform most tasks with one hand after the operation. Having someone around the house who can assist with your recovery and regular housework can make the time spent recovering much easier.
Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgical procedure, and they should ideally stay with you for the first few nights following the operation. Be sure to ask anyone well in advance, so they can rearrange their schedule accordingly if required. - Wound care
Following surgery on your wrist, your surgeon will provide you with comprehensive wound care instructions. It will include instructions on when and how to change bandages, warning signs that patients should be aware of, and follow-up meetings with the surgeon to evaluate the patient’s healing process.
Changing bandages and maintaining the wound’s cleanliness may necessitate assistance from a family member or friend during the wound care phase. When your wrist injury is healing, you must give it ample rest. For the wrist to recover quickly and effectively, it is essential to refrain from using it as much as possible.
Conclusion
Make an appointment with one of our specialists at North Texas Health Center if you feel you may have injured your wrist and are suffering pain, tenderness, swelling, bruising, or notice an apparent change in the shape of your wrist. We can diagnose your issues and provide the necessary treatment for you to heal and recover your function. We can also help you with occupational therapy in Dallas, TX and the surrounding areas.