Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common injuries involving the wrists and hands. People who have jobs or hobbies involving repetitive motions, such as keyboarding or working with a jackhammer, will often develop this problem. If it is severe, it may require surgery, so it is important to know how to take care of your wrists and hands to help restore full function to them.
Once orthopedic doctors in Pensacola, FL have performed carpal tunnel decompression surgery, they will prescribe antibiotics and painkillers, which you should take as directed. These medications help to prevent infections and provide relief from any pain you may experience. There will be a follow-up appointment ten days to two weeks after the surgery to assess how well your hands are healing.
Going to physical therapy is important for restoring full function to your wrists, hands, and fingers. A physical therapist will teach you some exercises to help improve your hand strength, which can sometimes be compromised by the surgery. Orthopedic doctors will discuss physical therapy with patients at their follow-up appointments after they make sure their hands and wrists are ready for it.
Sometimes occupational therapy is necessary to show patients different ways to perform tasks to keep them from injuring their hands and wrists again. Upon the recommendation of doctors at Panhandle Orthopaedics, a therapist will teach you how to take better care of yourself as your hands regain their strength. They may also teach you new ways to perform your job or recommend ways to protect your hands and wrists by wearing splints or braces.
While the surgery can be very beneficial to some patients, orthopedic doctors may advise patients that some symptoms can remain after surgery, depending on the damage that was present prior to surgery.