Following hand surgery, proper elevation of the hand is a significant aspect of the recovery process. It involves positioning the hand to encourage fluid drainage and healing. Elevation helps manage common post-operative experiences and promotes smoother recovery.
The Purpose of Hand Elevation
Elevating the hand after surgery is important for several benefits. One primary reason is to reduce swelling, also known as edema, which is a natural response to surgical trauma. Excess fluid can accumulate in the hand, leading to discomfort and hindering healing. By keeping the hand above heart level, gravity assists in draining this fluid away from the surgical site.
This reduction in swelling also helps to minimize pain. When fluid builds up, it can create pressure on nerves and tissues, leading to increased pain. Elevating the hand alleviates this pressure, offering comfort.
Elevation supports better blood circulation. Improved blood and lymphatic fluid flow helps remove waste products and deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to healing tissues. These combined effects contribute to a healing environment, aiding recovery.
Effective Elevation Positions and Aids
Achieving proper hand elevation, specifically above the heart, is important across various daily activities. When lying down, a common method involves propping the hand and forearm on several pillows. Positioning the arm on pillows beside or on the chest ensures consistent elevation, even during sleep. This creates a “downhill path” for fluids to drain away from the hand.
When sitting, pillows can be used to support the arm and hand on a table or armrest. Specialized arm elevation pillows, designed from soft foam, are also available; these cradle the arm and hand to maintain elevation. For standing or moving, a sling can provide support, but ensure the hand is still positioned above the elbow and the elbow above the heart for effective elevation. If the hand dangles below the elbow in a sling, it is not effectively elevated. When walking, holding the hand elevated on the opposite shoulder helps maintain height.
Maintaining Consistent Elevation
Consistent hand elevation day and night is important for effective recovery. For the first three to five days following surgery, keeping the hand above heart level is recommended. Continuous elevation, even during sleep, controls swelling and discomfort. Using pillows to support the hand while sleeping, ensuring it stays above the heart, is beneficial.
A common mistake is allowing the hand to hang down for extended periods, such as when standing or walking without proper support. This leads to increased swelling and throbbing pain. Consistent elevation helps prevent this fluid accumulation, contributing to a quicker recovery. Regularly checking that the hand remains higher than the heart, whether sitting, standing, or lying down, supports healing.
Recognizing When to Seek Medical Guidance
While some swelling and discomfort are expected after hand surgery, knowing when to seek medical guidance is important. Increasing or uncontrolled pain not relieved by elevation and prescribed medication requires attention. Persistent or worsening swelling despite consistent elevation also indicates contacting a healthcare provider.
Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, pus-like drainage, or fever above 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, require medical consultation. Changes in sensation, such as new or worsening numbness or tingling in the fingers, or changes in skin color like paleness or blueness, should be reported. A foul odor also indicates medical advice.