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After Carpal Tunnel Surgery?

I had carpal tunnel surgery 10 days ago on both hands. For the past 2 days, I have had bad pain in both wrists and hands, especially when I write or doing daily activities. Is this normal. I am rotating in Tylenol and Ibuprofen. I iced my hands last night and doing the post-op stretches that I was given.

Male | 52 years old
Complaint duration: recent
Medications: Tylenol / Ibuprofen
Conditions: Surgery recovery

8 Answers

Discomfort in the palms and wrist up to 3 months after surgery is common after carpal tunnel release. Typically the pain is the worst the first 3-5 days and should start to decrease as the body heals over the incision. I would avoid any heavy lifting or activity where you are using you had until the stitches are removed by your provider in clinic.
Having pain at the base of your hand is normal after surgery. If your stitches are out, you can start massaging that area. The more you massage the faster your pain will improve.
Hello,

Yes, it is normal to have some pain in the palms and wrists after the surgery. That is why I generally do one hand at a time, so you have a good hand to use. The pain generally resolves over weeks to months. Hopefully it has already resolved by now. Sorry to take a while to get back to you.

Best wishes,

Evan Guerrero, MD
Still very early after surgery; to be expected -- give it a few more weeks.
It is not uncommon to have pain after carpal tunnel release. Assuming no medical contraindications Tylenol and ibuprofen are appropriate analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents respectively. Peak inflammation should be about 3-4 days after surgery. If your symptoms have not started to subside or improve by then contact your surgeon.
Yes, this is quite common is not cause for concern. You should note improvement in your numbness and tingling. If the pain worsens, then I would recommend you discuss this with your physician. Good luck!
With the recent surgery you should speak to your surgeon regarding your pain
This may be normal. However, it really depends on your current situation. Having just had surgery, please contact your surgeon.

Harrison Solomon, M.D.