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Physiotherapy for Wrist Surgery
Wrist surgery is a common area to have a surgical procedure done. An orthopaedic surgeon will perform the wrist surgery. This can be done under a local or a general anaesthetic. This will be decided upon by the anaesthetist and the consultant with the wishes of the patient taken into consideration. Some of the main reasons for an individual to undergo wrist surgery are:
- Fracture stabilisation
- Manipulation
- Carpal tunnel release
- Tendon repair
- Wrist fusion
Wrist surgery can be debilitating as function decreases due to the limitation of movement and protocols following the surgery. The wrist may be immobilised for a length of time post surgery to optimise healing. The individual will then require a course of physiotherapy rehabilitation for the wrist as there will be:
- Increased pain
- Decreased movement
- Decreased strength
- Decreased function
These symptoms post operative can increase the risk of injury if the individual does too much too soon without rehabilitation. A physiotherapist will guide the individual through what can be done at what stage. The post wrist surgery rehabilitation programme can include a combination of the following:
- Exercise (range of movement, strengthening and stretching)
- Electrotherapy
- Mobilisations
- Massage
- Ice therapy
- Wax therapy
These will be used in combination with each other as the physiotherapist sees appropriate post wrist surgery.
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