Most people take their hands for granted until pain prevents them from completing routine tasks. When the nerve that passes through your wrist becomes restricted, you experience burning and pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. The surgical release of the tendon restricting the nerve can provide relief, but preparing for surgery can be a challenge.
To ensure that your recovery process goes smoothly, here are three things that you should do to prepare for your carpal tunnel release surgery in the future.
1. Clear the surgery with your insurance company.
While most insurance companies view carpal tunnel release as a necessary procedure, it's important that you take the time to discuss your surgical plans with your health insurance representative prior to surgery.
You may need to submit documentation from your doctor or pre-authorization may be needed in order for your insurance company to pay for the procedure. The last thing you want to do once you get out of the operating room is worry about financials, since stress can impede the healing process. Be sure that you have cleared your carpal tunnel release with your insurance company prior to going under the knife to make your recovery go smoothly.
2. Invest in physical therapy.
Once your carpal tunnel release is complete, you will want to do everything possible to speed up the recovery process so that you can regain use of your hand. You should prepare for your surgery by contacting a reputable physical therapist and setting up a post-operative appointment.
The physical therapist can start providing soft tissue massage to help reduce swelling and increase range of motion immediately after your surgery, and as your wound heals you can work up to more intensive rehabilitation through assisted stretching and strength building exercises.
3. Revamp your living space.
You want to make it as easy as possible to function within your home after your carpal tunnel release surgery. This can often mean revamping your living space to accommodate the healing process.
Make sure that you have made arrangements to have someone clean while you are in recovery since you won't be able to lift heavy objects or come into contact with cleaning chemicals. Take the time to make sure you have some shirts that can be pulled over your head since you won't be able to thread buttons through button holes after surgery. Making these simple arrangements can have a significant impact on the comfort and ease of your recovery after hand surgery.
Preparing for recovery prior to undergoing carpal tunnel release surgery will ensure that you are able to regain use of your hand as quickly as possible. For more information, contact a business such as Town Center Orthopaedic Associates, P.C.
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