How soon after carpal tunnel surgery should I start physical therapy?
Your actual therapy may begin within a few days after surgery while your arm is still wrapped in a soft cast. Rehabilitation sessions may be two or three times a week for about four to six weeks. This therapy may use a combination of ice, massage, assisted stretching and strength-building exercises.
Should you do physical therapy after carpal tunnel surgery?
The recovery from carpal tunnel surgery takes time – anywhere from several weeks to several months. If the nerve has been compressed for a long period of time, recovery may take even longer. Recovery involves splinting your wrist and getting physical therapy to strengthen and heal the wrist and hand.
What exercises are recommended after carpal tunnel surgery?
Wrist Flexion & Stretch
- Extend your arm out in front of your, with your wrist flexed at a 90-degree angle.
- Using your other hand, gently pull your wrist back by your fingers.
- Hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds, repeating 5 times.
How long after carpal tunnel surgery can I exercise?
Once your sutures are removed, you can increase activities as tolerated but avoid heavy repetitive activities for 4 weeks after surgery. Most patients who have carpal tunnel release regain full use of their hand, with full motion and return of strength within about 4 weeks after their surgery.
Can you bend your wrist after carpal tunnel surgery?
If you notice drainage that is not clear, or have symptoms of heat and redness at the incision site that is getting worse – you should contact your therapist or physician’s office as soon as possible. Avoid bending your wrist forward until you are 2 weeks post operatively, your splint will help with this.
What is the recovery time for carpal tunnel release?
Recovery Time. Recovery time for carpal tunnel release surgery varies according to the severity of the condition and how long it had lasted prior to surgery. In general, patients can expect a recovery period of two weeks to several months, but it may take up to a year to reach peak improvement.
What are the restrictions after carpal tunnel surgery?
Restrictions Avoid pushing down on your palm (for example when getting out of a chair). Do not lift anything heavier than 5 pounds on the involved arm for one month after surgery. You may drive 2 days after surgery if you have controlled pain and swelling in the arm.
What are the risks of carpal tunnel surgery?
Risks come with any operation. For both types of carpal tunnel release surgery, they include: Bleeding. Damage to your median nerve or nearby nerves and blood vessels. Infection of your wound. A scar that hurts to touch.
What are the problems with carpal tunnel surgery?
Some of the possible complications and problems after carpal tunnel surgery are: Infection. Excessive bleeding. Injuries to the surrounding blood vessels. Excessive pain in the operated area. Stiffness of the wrist.