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The process of carpel tunnel recovery depends on the
type of anesthesia that has been injected. Local anesthesia, if injected
will keep your fingers and the wrist area numb or the area where
injected for at least ten to twelve hours after the surgery. After the
effect of anesthesia wears off, it is recommended to take some pain
killers. Slowly, you will feel the relief of surgical pain.
Carpal Tunnel Recovery Reminder
Hand elevation is important
to prevent swelling and stiffness of the fingers. Please remember not to
walk with your hand dangling or to sit with your hand held in your lap.
It is fine, however, to lower your hand for light use and you should get
back to normal light activities as soon as possible as guided by common
sense. There are a number of exercises you should do to prevent
stiffness.
Carpal Tunnel Recovery Reminder
You have been
discharged with a supportive dressing, consisting of gauze, wool and a
crepe bandage. Do not forget to remove the entire dressing after five
days and inspect the wound. There obviously will be some swelling and
bruising. Look out for any redness or tenderness in the area around the
wound that might indicate an infection. Do not apply antiseptic, for all
you know, it is quite safe to leave the wound open. If you have any
worries, do not hesitate to contact your doctor right away.
Carpal
Tunnel Recovery Reminder
At this stage it is safe to get the hand
wet in a bath or shower. The wound and the surrounding skin often become
very dry and will be more comfortable if a moisturizer is applied. An
easy way of doing this is to briefly immerse your hand in some warm
water to which some Johnson's baby oil has been added. Alternatively,
apply an unscented moisturizing cream to the skin.
Carpal Tunnel
Recovery Reminder
You can drive if you are comfortable and have
regained full finger movements especially, if you have sufficient power
to control the vehicle. Timing of your return to work is variable
according to your occupation which should be discussed by your doctor
and employeer.
Carpal Tunnel Recovery Reminder
Stitches will be
removed at about two weeks after the operation. Following this, the scar
will be somewhat lumpy, firm and tender. The scar will settle after
about three months, but massaging the area firmly with moisturizing
cream can help this.
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