Wrist surgery can help reduce pain and swelling, restore mobility, and help you get back to daily life. But its recovery can take time. How much time it will take depends on how you care for your wrist afterward. The hand is the basic body part you need to use for your daily activities. But after surgery, you have to be patient and let it recover as soon as possible.
Whether you had surgery for a ligament repair or a fracture, the right post-operative care is essential to a fast recovery. This guide presents five tips for fast recovery after wrist surgery:
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
After your wrist surgery is complete, your surgeon must give you some suggestions to help prevent pain or swelling. They also mention techniques to follow for soon recovery. Every surgery is different, and recovery time varies, so your surgeon provides a recovery plan tailored to your needs. This is why you should stick to the specific advice your surgeon gives you.
They can advise you on taking your medicine on time, keeping the dressing dry, and when to return for follow-ups. Skipping a single step can delay healing or lead to complications.
2. Manage Swelling & Discomfort
If you have swelling around your wrist, don’t worry; it’s common in the first days after surgery. You need to keep your wrist elevated on a pillow as much as you can. You can apply an ice pack to the swollen area and move your fingers to improve circulation, if approved by your surgeon. These recovery steps can reduce swelling and pain and help tissues heal faster.
3. Consider Physical Therapy
Your surgeon will guide you on when to consider physical therapy. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that can help restore your motion, strength, and flexibility. These sessions are tailored to your specific needs or goals.
Whether you want to recover quickly for returning to sports, work, or simply everyday activities. Make sure you do not start on your own; begin only when your advisor suggests you. Following the exercises correctly can help to prevent stiffness and improve strength.
4. Protect the Wrist During Daily Activities
If possible, have a helper assist with daily activities for the first few days. You can also use a splint or brace if your doctor prescribes. Don’t lift heavy objects, put weight on the wrist, or make sudden twisting movements until cleared by your surgeon. Keep patience; recovery takes time. Simple care today leads to faster freedom tomorrow.
5. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet helps tissue repair and overall recovery. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and calcium, along with adequate hydration, supports bone and tissue repair. Following your doctor’s diet plan strictly will not only help with a faster recovery but also be good for your other body organs.
Along with balanced nutrients, rest is also essential. Your body heals best when you take more rest. You should avoid smoking because it affects blood flow and delays recovery.