How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Surgery Pain

Carpal tunnel surgery is an effective way to reduce pressure on the nerves and cure the condition. Since many different incisions can be made during the surgery and lots of tissue is often removed, there can be some pain during the recovery time. You should know how to treat carpal tunnel surgery pain if you are preparing for or considering this type of surgery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Warm compress
• Pain relief medicine
• Medicine prescribed by you surgeon

1. Follow the directions of the surgeons after your surgery. One key to preventing pain is to be sure that your wrist and fingers are immobilized. You will also have to move your fingers during recovery to help prevent stiffness and muscle problems.
2. Take your medication after surgery. Your doctor and surgeon will provide you with a prescription for medication to help prevent an infection. You need to take this medication as directed by your doctors to reduce pain from the surgery.
3. Buy some pain relief medication at the drugstore. In addition to anti-infection medicines, the surgeon will likely ask you to buy some over the counter pain relief medicine. Take this medicine as directed to help reduce pain after your surgery.
4. Try a warm compress. You can purchase a reusable compress or simple soak a washcloth in warm water. Apply it directly to your wrist to help treat the pain. Ask your surgeon about warm compresses before doing it, though, as it may affect some kinds of stitches.
5. Elevate your hand. If your wrist starts to hurt, lift it up for a few minutes. The reduced blood flow to the area should help take away the pain a little. Your surgeon may also want you to keep your hand elevated at night for the first 1 to 2 weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a friend to help you during your recovery. Having a friend carry heavy things for you is one of the best ways to prevent post-surgical pain.
• A splint should be worn continuously in the first 1 to 2 weeks after surgery to prevent movement and reduce pain.
• Some medication may produce side effects. Be sure that you are aware of these and know what to watch for.
• Don't start physical therapy too early. You need to give your hand time to heal after surgery before you start therapy to strength it and recover your range of movement. Starting physical therapy too soon after surgery can lead to lots of pain.