Seventeen years ago, I was diagnosed with CTS and had my left hend fixed. All I recall was a period of serious swelling and pain , although the end result was good.
After stalling for nearly two decades, I finally agreed to let them fix the right (OK, the doctor refused to gove me any more cortisone shots). Anyway, they’re doing it tomorrow morning. I know it’s different now - but I still assume that I’ll be offline and unable to play for a few days.
Has anyone here had this done recently? How long were you unable to use the hand(s) for whistling or typing?
I’ve had no experience with CT, just wanted to wish you all the best, and that I hope it turns out to be a good experience, and speedy recovery for you!
everyone is different. it depends a little on your age, a little more on if you have diabetes or not, if you have other conditions affecting your hands or not (e.g. arthritis) and what technique your surgeons use. Some use a smaller incision, etc. In any case, it should not be weeks.
You will probably be sent to physical therapy or occupational therapy for a few sessions (either specialty qualified to do this). Bring your whistle along and show the therapist how you hold it. You will get your best guidance there.
You are doing the right thing. A CT release is alot safer than repeated cortisone shots. Also, if the cortisone shots worked, that is a pretty good predictor that the surgery will give you relief.
Good luck and feel well.
Meir
(better at medicine than whistling, but working to change that).
I have had a great deal of experience with carpal tunnel syndrome through my own experience and of workmates.
80 percent of such complaints stem originally from the neck, re vertebral subluxation or pinched nerves, a good chiropractor fixed my complaint completely. those who dont believe in chiropractors or found an operation to be a last resort, will go through considerable pain and discomfort after the op. those i have witnessed undergoing the procedure usually agree that freedom from pain was worth it.But it can recurr,
repetitive strain is inflammation of the tendons of the arm / shoulder, pain is the bodys reaction to the inflammation. this usually peaks at the wrist, due to the tendons being constricted by the carpal band
I fully reccommend the following before attempting an operation
chiropractor,
remedial massage,
and anti inflammitory medication such as vitamine b, feldine gel, difflam gel etc.
Its better to exhaust all other possibilities before getting that ugly scar on your wrist.
good luck mate
Regards David
No personal experience, but MANY of my podiatry patients have had this with nearly universal success.
Get as much physical therapy as your insurance will allow, and if you have any problems at all after that, bug them for more. It is a huge help in any surgery of this sort. Go for it!
Interestingly enough, it doesn’t seem like PT will be necessary. I’m now approximately 84 hours post-procedure. The big bandage and splint are off and while the incision is still open, my instructions are only to keep it lightly covered with a Band-Aid. Only four stitches. There’s no sign of swelling and no apparent loss of motion. Strength is somewhat restricted, and lifting with that hand is limited to no more than 2-3 pounds. Whistle-playing seems to b unrestricted, at least for slower stuff and the hand tiring a little more easily.
What pain there is sems to be easily controlled by Tylenol.