How long does it take to recover from thumb joint replacement surgery?
Recovery typically takes up to three months for the prosthetic implant surgery. The casting period is longer as well. Recovery does not take as long for the Spherical Implant Surgery—individuals can return to full activity after three to five weeks.
Can thumb joints be replaced?
There are a few different types of thumb joint surgery available, but the Arthritis Foundation reports that a procedure called ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition arthroplasty has been around for more than 40 years and “is the most commonly performed surgery for thumb arthritis.”
What happens after thumb joint replacement?
Your body takes time to rebuild the structures around the base of the thumb and to learn to move in a different way. Recovering the early movement takes six to eight weeks, but increasing the strength of the thumb pinch can take six months. After surgery, your hand will be painful.
How long does it take to recover from basal thumb surgery?
Three to 4 weeks after the procedure, the cast is removed and active range-of-motion therapy begins. Strengthening begins around 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. The majority of patients return to most activities by 3 months after surgery. Full recovery of normal activities may require up to 6 months.
What can you not do after thumb surgery?
For 1 to 2 weeks after surgery, avoid using your hand. This includes lifting things heavier than 0.5 to 1 kilogram (1 to 2 pounds) or doing repeated finger or hand movements, such as typing, using a computer mouse, washing windows, vacuuming, or chopping food.
Is thumb surgery painful?
Thumb surgical reconstruction can be painful. You will receive a prescription for narcotic pain medicine. For the first 2-3 days, take the pain medication around the clock to stay on top of the pain control. After 3 days, take the medicine only if you need it.
What is the most common thumb surgery?
The most reliable and successful surgical option for thumb basal joint arthritis has been given several names, the most common being “suspensionplasty” or LRTI (ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition).
Do you wear a cast after thumb surgery?
After surgery, you will be in a bulky dressing (bandage) with a plaster splint that covers your thumb, wrist and forearm. The splint is similar to a cast. The splint can not be removed and must be kept dry.
What is the most common complication with thumb arthroplasty?
There are always risks with any surgery. The most common complications after a thumb arthroplasty include infection, temporary numbness along the top of the thumb, and stiffness.
How should you sleep after thumb surgery?
Your surgeon might teach you the “hand above elbow, elbow above heart” rule. When sleeping, it may help to use a large mound of pillows, either beside you or on your chest, to keep your hand and wrist in this elevated position.
How long does the pain last after thumb surgery?
The first 6 weeks are tough with pain, weakness, and stiffness in the thumb. Most patients have minimal pain by 3 months after surgery. Your symptoms will continue to improve with improvements in ability to do more activities every 3 months.
What can go wrong with a Trapeziectomy?
Possible complications of a trapeziectomy
Possible problems include swelling, bruising, bleeding, blood collecting under the wound (haematoma), infection and splitting open of the wound (dehiscence).
How long does pain last after thumb surgery?
When is surgery needed for thumb arthritis?
If you don’t respond to other treatments or if you’re barely able to bend and twist your thumb, your doctor might recommend surgery. Options include: Joint fusion (arthrodesis). The bones in the affected joint are permanently fused.
What should be avoided after hand surgery?
Using the hand too much and too early following surgery. Not using the hand at all following surgery. This often results in problems with stiffness. Not elevating the hand as instructed to minimize swelling and improve healing.
How successful is a Trapeziectomy?
A trapeziectomy is excellent at removing the pain of the arthritis, and with a reduction in pain, you will notice an increase in grip and pinch strength and overall function. However, the recovery from this procedure is slow. It takes most patients 4-6 months to return to all their normal activities.
Do you have to wear a cast after thumb surgery?
Is thumb arthritis serious?
Thumb arthritis can cause severe pain, swelling, and decreased strength and range of motion, making it difficult to do simple tasks, such as turning doorknobs and opening jars. Treatment generally involves a combination of medication and splints. Severe thumb arthritis might require surgery.
What is the fastest way to recover from hand surgery?
Tips for Hand Surgery Recovery
- Keep Your Hand and Arm Elevated. Raising your hand and arm above the level of your heart minimizes swelling and pain after your surgery, especially for the first 3-5 days.
- Plastic Bags Are Your New Best Friend.
- Don’t Neglect Your Therapy Exercises.
- Listen To Your Body.
What can go wrong after a Trapeziectomy?
What is Stage 4 thumb arthritis?
Stage IV: All the components of stage III along with destruction of the scaphotrapezial joint. At this stage the CMC joint is usually fixed and some patients may have little to no pain. Treatment: In early stages, stage I and sometimes stage II, con- servative treatment should be considered.
What can you not do after hand surgery?
Can you drive after thumb surgery?
Your hand will be in a splint and immobilized, rendering you unable to drive. Even if your procedure was not outpatient, someone will have to drive you home from the hospital once you are discharged – and most hospitals and clinics now require that the driver be someone you personally know.
What can be done for severe arthritis of the thumb?
Ice the joint for 5 to 15 minutes several times a day. Take an anti-inflammatory medication, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, to help reduce inflammation and swelling. Wear a supportive splint to limit the movement of your thumb, and allow the joint to rest and heal. The splint may protect both the wrist and the thumb.