Rehabilitation Strategy: Recovering Faster After Hand Surgery
Recovering from any surgery requires careful adherence to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions. But, due to the complex structure of the hand, hand and wrist surgeries require an even more comprehensive rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, mobility, and functionality.
While each individual’s recovery process will vary depending on the specific procedure and personal factors, there are effective strategies that can accelerate healing and optimize outcomes after hand surgery. In this article, top Detroit area hand surgeon Dr. Uzma Rehman explains some effective rehabilitation strategies aimed at promoting accelerated recovery after hand and wrist surgeries, focusing on exercises, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments that can aid in the rapid restoration of hand function – so you can get back to your daily activities as quickly as possible.
Early Hand Surgery Recovery Period
Immediately following hand and wrist surgeries, the focus of rehabilitation is on managing pain, swelling, and maintaining the integrity of the surgical site. Your hand surgeon may prescribe pain medications and provide instructions on wound care. During this stage, it is essential to follow the hand surgeon’s guidelines, limit strenuous activity, and keep the hand elevated to minimize swelling.
Range of Motion Exercises After Hand Surgery
Once the initial healing phase is complete, range of motion exercises play a crucial role in regaining mobility and preventing stiffness. These exercises involve gently moving the hand and fingers through their full range of motion. It is important to perform these exercises as directed by a healthcare professional to avoid excessive strain or complications.
Strengthening Exercises During Hand Surgery Recovery
As the hand and wrist begin to heal, gradually introducing strengthening exercises can help rebuild muscle strength and improve overall hand function. These exercises may include squeezing a stress ball, using resistance bands, or performing finger curls with small weights. It is important to start with light resistance and gradually increase the intensity.
Strengthening exercises should always be undertaken under the guidance of a certified hand therapist or a healthcare professional specifically trained in recovery of the hand and wrist after surgery.
Hand Therapy for Faster Recovery
Hand therapy is a specialized form of rehabilitation that focuses on the functional recovery of the hand and wrist. The certified hand therapists at Macomb Hand Surgery in the Detroit area can assess your individual, specific needs and develop a personalized hand recovery treatment plan.
Our specialized hand therapy typically includes exercises to improve range of motion, strengthen muscles, enhance coordination, and promote dexterity. Additionally, our certified hand therapists may employ techniques such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, massage, or electrical stimulation to aid in healing and reducing pain.
Scar Management After Hand Surgery
Proper scar management is essential for optimal recovery after hand and wrist surgeries. Massaging the scar tissue with lotion or oil – according to your surgeon’s instructions – can help soften and flatten the scar. Remember that scars are not just a cosmetic issue. Scars can also cause pain and limit mobility and flexibility.
Correct scar management after hand surgery will promote better mobility and reduce discomfort. Applying silicone gel sheets or using silicone-based creams may also aid in scar healing and minimize their appearance.
Lifestyle Adjustments After Hand Surgery
During the rehabilitation process, it is important to make certain lifestyle adjustments and modifications to protect the healing hand and wrist. This includes avoiding activities that place excessive strain on the hand and wrist, such as heavy lifting or repetitive motions. Remember even “relaxing” activities like playing video games or using your phone can involve repetitive activities.
Workout and athletic activities – especially those involving weights and/or a risk of a bump or fall – should be avoided as well, until your hand surgeon gives you the green light.
If you must work, using ergonomic tools and adaptive devices that minimize stress on the hand and wrist can be important. Talk to our certified hand therapists about your work duties and when and how you may safely resume them. Also, practicing proper posture and body mechanics to maintain good alignment will help prevent unnecessary stress on the hand and wrist.
Gradually return to daily activities and work, with a focus on pacing – and always take care to avoid overexertion. Let your friends, family and coworkers pamper you – and make them carry in the groceries, change the cat litter, or lift heavy boxes until your surgeon say you may resume these tasks!
Recovery After Hand Surgery
Recovery after hand or wrist surgery require patience and compliance with your surgeon’s instructions and the prescribed rehabilitation and physical therapy program. The more closely you follow the guidance of healthcare professionals, attend therapy sessions regularly, and adhere to home exercise routines, the faster you will recover!
While each patient’s progress and timeframe will vary, consistent effort and commitment to the rehabilitation process can lead to the fastest recovery.
Hand Surgery Therapy | Detroit Area
Each individual patient’s journey is unique, and top hand surgeon Dr. Rehman and our certified hand therapists will develop a personalized rehabilitation and post-surgery therapy plan just for you. With dedication and perseverance, you WILL be able to regain strength, flexibility, and functionality in your hands, facilitating a successful recovery and a return to daily tasks as well as the activities you love!
