What is the typical recovery time for 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 is recovery like after carpal tunnel surgery?

You may have some soreness for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months after surgery. Your bandage will stay on for 1-2 weeks. Your doctor may give you exercises to do during this time to move your fingers and keep them from getting too stiff.

How painful is it after carpal tunnel surgery?

Immediate pain after carpal tunnel surgery is perfectly normal – and expected. The pain’s intensity usually is related to the type of surgery you have: Pain normally is more intense with the open release type of surgery. The endoscopic release type of surgery normally results in less pain.

Can you overdo it after carpal tunnel surgery?

After the carpal tunnel incision has healed, hand activity is not harmful to the recovery process. Doing too much with the hands after surgery can be sore, but it does not cause long-lasting damage.

How do you sleep after carpal tunnel surgery?

Your surgeon might teach you the “hand above elbow, elbow above heart” rule. When sleeping, it may help to use a large mound of pillows, either beside you or on your chest, to keep your hand and wrist in this elevated position.

Should I move my fingers after carpal tunnel surgery?

After your surgery, you may be encouraged to do the following: Elevate your hand above your heart and move your fingers to reduce swelling and prevent stiffness. Ice the surgical site for a given amount of time, a few times a day. You may need to wear a splint or wrist brace for several weeks.

How do you shower after carpal tunnel surgery?

Soap and water are an excellent skin cleanser, and it is OK to get everything wet in a shower with running water. Avoid immersing your wound under water until the sutures are removed. Please do not use salves like Neosporin™ or Bacitracin™ for the wound.