Hand Post Op Advice

This leaflet offers general guidance to help your recovery after hand and wrist surgery.

Careful aftercare over the coming weeks gives you the best possible outcome.

At the heart of my practice is Shared Decision-Making. Whether we pursue conservative management (Plan A) or surgical intervention (Plan B), the goal is to create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and functional goals.

Restoring Function & Comfort

The success of your surgery depends significantly on how you look after your hand over the coming weeks. The hand is an intricate structure of 29 bones and complex nerves; following these guidelines will help ensure the best possible outcome.

Managing Swelling & Pain

• Elevation: For the first 48–72 hours, keep your hand raised above heart level as much as possible, using pillows at night. This is the most effective way to reduce pain.
• Pain Relief: Take prescribed medication regularly for the first 2–3 days — do not wait for pain to become severe.
• Ice Packs: If directed, apply a towel-wrapped ice pack for 10–15 minutes several times a day.

Wound & Bandage Care

• Keep it Dry: Dressings must stay completely dry until stitches are removed (usually 10–14 days). Use a waterproof cover for showering.
• Bulky Bandages: "Boxing glove" dressings are usually reduced to a smaller dressing after 2–3 days; your team will advise you.
• Stitches: Non-dissolvable stitches are removed in clinic at 10–14 days; dissolvable stitches fall out naturally within 2–3 weeks.

Movement & Therapy

Early, gentle movement is vital to prevent permanent stiffness.

• Fingers: Even if your wrist is bandaged, gently make a fist and straighten your fingers several times every hour.
• Shoulder & Elbow: Move these joints regularly to prevent them stiffening while your hand is protected.
• Hand Therapy: If referred to a specialist therapist, attending these sessions is essential for regaining full function.

Scar Management (After 2 Weeks)

Once the wound is fully closed and stitches are out, begin scar massage:

• Use a simple, unperfumed moisturiser (e.g. E45 or aqueous cream).
• Apply firm, circular pressure over the scar for 5 minutes, twice a day.
• This stops the scar sticking to the underlying tendons.

Driving & Work

• Driving: You must have full control and be able to perform an emergency stop — usually about 2 weeks post-op. Confirm cover with your insurance provider.
• Office Work: Usually 1–2 weeks.
• Manual Labour: 4–8 weeks depending on the surgery.