Exploring Alternatives After Experiencing Complications from Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Demographics: 34 years old, Female (he/him), Weight: 270 lbs, Height: 5'5" Medical History: Diagnosed with Crohn's disease, Borderline Personality Disorder, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Current Medications: Wegovy, Vyvanse, Trazodone, Trintellix, Birth Control, Depakote, CBD for sleep if necessary. Duration of Issues: Ongoing for four months. In April, I underwent carpal tunnel surgery on my left hand, which healed exceptionally well. This prompted me to schedule the same procedure for my right hand in May. Unfortunately, the pain I experienced post-surgery was far more severe than what I encountered with the first hand. Only three days after the operation, I found myself screaming in the emergency room, as the prescribed oxycodone was ineffective against the agony. For weeks following the surgery, I was plagued by complete numbness in my hand. My surgeon subsequently referred me to physical therapy, where I attended sessions three times a week for eight weeks. Although I completed the program and now feel no pain, I still struggle with numbness in my pinky, ring, and middle fingers, and my thumb cannot reach my pinky without force. Additionally, lifting anything over ten pounds is challenging as my hand often loses its grip unexpectedly. I'm seeking guidance on potential next steps. Being a writer, typing is integral to my job, yet my speed is hindered by frequent typos stemming from the spasms and limited movement in my fingers. I intend to reach out to my surgeon again to discuss my condition, but I would also appreciate some external insights. I am open to the idea of continuing physical therapy if necessary, though despite my diligent practice with stretches and exercises, I feel stuck in my recovery.
Answers (1)
9/4/2025, 3:01:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing significant challenges with your hand recovery after carpal tunnel surgery, especially given your role as a writer. While it's encouraging that you’ve completed physical therapy and have no pain, the persistent numbness and limited movement understandably impact your daily life and work.
Explanation
Complications following carpal tunnel surgery can occasionally occur, leading to symptoms such as numbness and weakness. This could be due to several factors, including nerve irritation, scar tissue formation, or even a need for additional therapeutic interventions. It's essential to tackle these lingering issues to regain functionality in your hand.
Next Steps
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Follow-Up with Your Surgeon: This should be your top priority. Discuss your continuing symptoms thoroughly, as they may warrant further examination or imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to assess the status of the median nerve and surrounding tissues.
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Consider Continued Physical Therapy: Since your recovery feels stagnant, additional sessions might help. A specialized hand therapist can provide targeted exercises and modalities to promote nerve healing and improve function.
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Ergonomic Adjustments: Since typing is critical for your work, consider investing in ergonomic tools, such as:
- A keyboard designed for those with limited hand movement (e.g., split keyboards).
- Finger splints that can help stabilize your fingers while typing.
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Assistive Technology: Explore dictation software or speech-to-text applications temporarily to ease typing strain while you continue to work on your recovery.
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Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Continue performing exercises and stretches recommended by your therapist, but consider asking them for modifications if you feel stuck. Focus on gentle movements that gradually increase your hand’s range of motion and strength without causing pain.
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Explore Alternative Treatments: Inquire about other therapies like acupuncture, electrical stimulation, or even occupational therapy, which could complement your current regimen.
Remember that recovery from nerve-related surgeries can be a gradual process, and it's important to maintain open communication with your healthcare team to adjust your treatment plan as needed. Your dedication to seeking solutions is a great step toward improving your situation. Let me know if you want to explore any particular treatments or require more information!
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