Question 1

how long should i keep my arm elevated after hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

24 hours: After hand surgery, elevating the operative limb for 24-48 hours should be sufficient to reduce swelling. Afterwards, elevation is probably not as clinically important.

Question 2

how long must my arms remain elevated after hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Long enough: Elevate the affected extremity as much as possible until swelling decreases.  Postop swelling is not unsual.  Elevation and gentle digital range of motion are a few simple steps to help decrease swelling (edema).  Placing the hand above the level of the heart (e.g. Left chest) allows gravity to facilitate the edema control.  A tight postoperative dressing may also be carefullly loosened.

Question 3

how can i reduce swelling after arm & hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Some amount of hand swelling after hand surgery is normal. The amount of hand swelling depends on the condition and the treatment needed for the condition. Is important to control the swelling mostly with elevation and keeping the fingers moving. If this fails occupational therapists can help to reduce the swelling.

Question 4

please explain what do i wear when going in for hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Allow for dressing: Wear short sleeve or loose shirt such as sweatshirt to allow for a bulky hand dressing splint or cast.

Question 5

will my handwriting change after having  hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Not typically.: As long as you can feel and grip, your ability to write should not change.  If you have significant weakness after surgery, you may notice some temporary changes in your writting. These usually resolve as you recover from surgery.  Occupational therapy may be needed after surgery.

Question 6

is it normal to have shoulder pain after hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Can happen: Depending in the surgical procedure you had and the position in which you were placed for the procedure, the shoulder may become sore afterwards.  Symptoms usually improve after a short period of time and with a little physical therapy.

Question 7

why are my fingernails growing very slowly after hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Not uncommon: Changes in the rate of fingernail growth after surgery both slower and faster are not uncommon. In time the rate of growth generally normalizes.

Question 8

why is it impossible for me to make a fist after hand surgery?

Accepted Answer

Complex : Relationships exist between the joints tendons small muscles and soft tissues in your hand. However swelling is the most common reason even unnoticed it just takes a small bit of soft tissue swelling to give  limitation  in motion. If you are cleared for motion on your own keep working as it is an everyday thing and swelling in general can last months depending upon you, your surgery  et al

Question 9

what is the best way to get rid of scare tissue after hand surgery ?

Accepted Answer

Avoid the Sun.: Avoid sun exposure, and use sunscreen if you are stepping outside.  Keep away from swimming-- especially in the ocean--until the scab has fallen away. Be vigilant for signs of infection (redness, increased pain, drainage, warmth).  Once scab has fallen away, a topical cream like Mederma has improved many of my own scars.

Question 10

is it unusual to have had hand surgery 6 months ago but my hand tingles?

Accepted Answer

Possibly: Ideally you  would no longer have pain after surgery, but it is possible.  Tingling in the hand is usually related to an irritated nerve.  Carpal tunnel is the most common cause.  I would recommend seeing your hand surgeon to have this evaluated.

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Doctor answers about:

How long should I keep my arm elevated after hand surgery

A member asked:

How long should i keep my arm elevated after hand surgery?

A member asked:

How long must my arms remain elevated after hand surgery?

A member asked:

How can i reduce swelling after arm & hand surgery?

A member asked:

Please explain what do i wear when going in for hand surgery?

A member asked:

Will my handwriting change after having hand surgery?

A member asked:

Is it normal to have shoulder pain after hand surgery?

A member asked:

Why are my fingernails growing very slowly after hand surgery?

A member asked:

Why is it impossible for me to make a fist after hand surgery?

A member asked:

What is the best way to get rid of scare tissue after hand surgery ?

A member asked:

Is it unusual to have had hand surgery 6 months ago but my hand tingles?

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