POST-OP HAND/WRIST CARE INSTRUCTIONS
The following is a list of instructions for you after your hand or wrist surgery. Most of the
instructions apply to all patients; however, there may be special circumstances which will be
indicated at the end of this handout.
Swelling
The most important thing you can do for your comfort immediately after surgery is to keep your hand
elevated. To do this your hand should be higher than your heart for the first 2-3 days. You can carry it
on your head when walking, on a pillow when lying down, or on the back of a couch or chair when
sitting. Elevation helps keep the swelling down and will decrease your pain. Doing this the first few
days after surgery will help you heal faster. Often the fingers will become bruised and appear blue and
yellow.
Motion
Depending on the type of surgery you have, your physician will instruct you on recommended
activities within the limitations of the dressing, cast, or splint. You may stop the elevation when you
are using your hand, but resume elevation when it is at rest. If your fingers are exposed, occasional
movement will promote circulation.
Ice
Ice and elevation help to prevent or decrease swelling. Use an ice pack for 20-30 minutes at least 3
times a day. DO NOT use heat during the first two weeks after your surgery, since this may cause
more swelling.
Dressing
You should keep your dressing (bandage), cast, or splint clean and dry. Keep the dressing or splint on
until your follow-up appointment unless otherwise instructed by your physician. Your sutures will
be removed at your follow-up appointment. When showering either keep it out of the shower or
cover it with plastic and tape around the edge. Often some blood may penetrate the initial dressing.
This is normal, but continued bleeding is cause for concern and you should contact your physician.
Physical Therapy
6900 A Street
•
P. O. Box 6939 Lincoln, Nebraska 68506
• Tel (402) 436-2000 •
Fax (402) 436-2099
Depending on your procedure, limited motion may be permitted on your own or under the care of a
physical therapist. You will be instructed when to schedule follow-up physical therapy after your
surgery.
Dr. Gove specific instructions to your surgery
***Carpal Tunnel Release
*** Trigger Finger Release
For the first 2-3 days after surgery, keep the dressing on. The dressing may be covered with a plastic
bag while bathing to keep it dry. Change the dressing 2-3 days after surgery. At that time you may
shower without covering the incision, however, avoid getting the hand dirty or immersing it in water
(such as doing dishes).
Immediately after surgery you are to begin gentle range of motion exercises of the hand and wrist. You
may return to light activities such as office and computer work immediately after surgery. You may
use your hand immediately after surgery for household and personal care, such as, eating, brushing
hair, and light activities. You will be restricted from heavy strenuous use for 4-6 weeks after surgery.
*** Ganglion Cyst Excision
For the first week after surgery, keep the dressing on. The dressing may be covered with a plastic bag
while bathing to keep it dry. You may change the dressing one week after surgery or as instructed. At
that time you may shower without covering the incision, however, avoid getting the hand dirty or
immersing it in water (such as doing dishes).
Immediately after surgery you are to begin gentle range of motion exercises of the hand. You may
return to light activities such as office and computer work immediately after surgery. You may use
your hand immediately after surgery for household and personal care, such as, eating, brushing hair,
and light activities. You will be restricted from heavy strenuous use for 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Revised January 2010
6900 A Street
•
P. O. Box 6939 Lincoln, Nebraska 68506
• Tel (402) 436-2000 •
Fax (402) 436-2099