If you need to have wrist surgery, understanding the expected wrist surgery recovery timeline can help you anticipate and plan for the time after the surgery. The length of the recovery time depends on the condition being treated and the type of surgery used. Below, we will take a look at the basics about what to expect after your wrist surgery.
How Wrist Surgery Works
Wrist surgery can often be performed arthroscopically, which helps minimize recovery time and prevent side effects. During arthroscopic surgery, the doctor makes small incisions near the affected part of the wrist, and inserts tools and a tiny camera through the incisions in order to operate on the wrist. If the doctor is performing more extensive surgery on the wrist, it may be necessary for him to open up the wrist and perform conventional wrist surgery. The recovery time with conventional surgery tends to be longer.
Expected Wrist Surgery Recovery Timeline
You can expect several things as you recover from your surgery:
- Go home the same day – If you had arthroscopic surgery, chances are you will be able to return home the same day. If you had open wrist surgery, it is possible that you will need a short hospital stay.
- The first few days are the toughest – For the first few days, you may feel drowsy and not up to doing much, and require pain medication to stay comfortable. You will feel better each progressive day after the surgery.
- Use support for your wrist as recommended – Your doctor may recommend that you use a splint or other device to keep your wrist still. Be sure to wear any prescribed devices as recommended.
- Return to some normal activities within a week – Most patients can return to some normal activities within a week, as directed by the physician.
- A longer period before returning to heavy wrist use – It may be as short as several weeks, or as long as several months, until you are able to do activities that require heavy use of your wrist, like typing for long periods or playing an instrument.
- Physical therapy – Your doctor may prescribe physical therapy to help you regain use of the wrist. You should continue to do the exercises you learn in physical therapy even after you are not having formal sessions anymore.
Some recovery time is inevitable with any surgery, and the biggest factor that determines your recovery time is the type of surgery. However, you can minimize your recovery time by following your doctor’s instructions about wrist use, communicating with your doctor about any unusual symptoms you begin to experience, and generally taking good care of your body.
Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your wrist health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.