Post-Hand Surgery Swelling: The Power of Elevation & Movement Introduction

Introduction

Swelling after hand surgery is a natural part of healing, but managing it effectively is key to a faster, more comfortable recovery. While slings provide support, the principles of elevation and strategic movement are your most powerful tools against post-hand surgery swelling and stiffness. Let’s delve deeper into how to optimize these techniques.

Why Elevation Matters: Fighting Gravity’s Pull

Understanding how gravity works gives you an edge in the battle against swelling:

• The Fluid Challenge: After surgery, excess fluid accumulates in your hand, causing swelling and discomfort.
• Concrete: swelling contains all the constituents of scar tissue and therefore if you let the swelling sit there it will set like concrete and hamper your rehabilitation enormously.
• Gravity Assist: Elevating your hand above the level of your heart lets gravity help drain this fluid, promoting natural healing.
• Reduced Pressure: When your hand is elevated, the blood vessels experience less pressure, which aids in further reducing swelling.

Key Takeaway: It’s not just about wearing a sling; it’s about positioning your hand correctly within it to reap the benefits of gravity.

Mastering Elevation Techniques

Here’s how to make elevation work for you throughout the day:

• Aim High: The goal is to keep your hand consistently above the level of your heart for maximum swelling reduction.
• Pillow Support: Prop your hand and entire forearm on multiple pillows while sitting or lying down. Experiment with the number of pillows for optimal comfort and elevation.
• Sling Smarts: Adjust your sling to truly support your hand above your elbow. If your hand dangles down, the sling isn’t fulfilling its purpose.
• Recliner Relief: Recliners offer a built-in elevation advantage, making it easier to relax in the right position.
• Nighttime Needs: Consider using pillows to elevate your hand even while sleeping to maintain consistent swelling control. Same principle of having your hand above your heart still applies.

Key Takeaway: Make elevation a habit. The more diligent you are, especially in the initial days after surgery, the better your results will be.

Movement: Your Secret Swelling Reducer

The right kind of movement is integral to successful swelling management and preventing stiffness:

• Beyond Wiggling: While gentle motion is key, aim for controlled, purposeful movements of your uninvolved joints (fingers, wrist, shoulder) through their full range of motion.
• Pumping Action: Moving your fingers and wrist, if you are able and allowed, helps “pump” excess fluid out of your hand, aiding in lymphatic drainage.
• Listen to Your Body: If movement causes significant pain, pause and rest. I’ll guide you on when and how to gradually increase your range of motion.

Key Takeaway: Elevation and movement work in tandem. Elevation reduces swelling, creating a more conducive environment for effective movement to further resolve swelling and restore function.

Your Path to a Smoother Recovery

By harnessing the power of elevation and strategic movement, you actively take charge of your healing:

• Comfort is Key: Reduced swelling translates to less pain and a more comfortable recovery experience.
• Empowering Yourself: Understanding these simple principles gives you a sense of control and confidence in self-management.
• Open Communication: I’m here to support you! Share questions or concerns about swelling, and I’ll tailor your care plan accordingly.

Prioritise elevation and purposeful movement throughout your healing journey for optimal hand function.