Hand Exercises to Try Following Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
After having carpal tunnel release surgery, it is common for people to experience stiffness and loss of use of their hands and fingers, taking up to six months for their strength to return. Fortunately, there are several exercises you can introduce to your daily routine to help build it back up.
Finger-Tip Touching
If you’re having trouble with hand coordination when it comes to everyday tasks like picking up coins, handling paper, or any other everyday tasks that require dexterity, try adding this exercise to your routine.
- Hold your hand palm-side up with your fingers slightly separated.
- Touch your thumb to each finger-tip individually, starting at your index finger and ending at your pinky.
- Repeat this process in the opposite direction, touching each finger-tip individually from your pinky to your index finger to complete one repetition.
- Repeat this exercise 3 to 5 times in each direction.
Wrist Flexion & Stretch
After having carpal tunnel release surgery, you can experience a build-up of scar tissue that can affect the way your hands and wrists function. This exercise can help to break up the scar tissue and open up the tunnel in your wrist.
- Extend your arm out in front of your, with your wrist flexed at a 90-degree angle.
- Using your other hand, gently pull your wrist back by your fingers.
- Hold this position for 10 to 30 seconds, repeating 5 times.
Tendon Gliding
Practicing this particular exercise can help you to regain range of motion and use of your hands and fingers following surgery.
- Hold your hand straight up and down, with all fingers erect and held together.
- Gend your 4 fingers forward at your first knuckle to a 90-degree angle, vehicle keeping your fingers together and straight.
- Bend your fingers at your second knuckle, keeping the last one straight.
- Bend your fingers at your last knuckle, forming a fist.
- Straighten your first knuckle while leaving the other two bent.
- Open your hand back to its original position.
- Repeat this sequence 5 to 10 times.
If you notice a sudden increase in pain or swelling after practicing these exercises, stop immediately and make an appointment with your physical therapist to address these issues.
Physical Therapy in New Jersey
Living with joint pain can get in the way of your quality of life when left unaddressed. At ProFysio Physical Therapy, we work with you to assess your condition and help you get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible. Whether you’ve suffered from an injury or you’re recovering from recent surgery, we will work with you to create your unique plan to get you on the right track.
Contact us today at ProFysio! Simply call (732) 812-5200 or reach out online. We have 5 locations across New Jersey to meet your needs.