Stiffness After Left Ring Finger Fracture Surgery - Plastic Surgery

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After a fracture surgery, particularly for an open fracture of the metacarpal bone in the left ring finger, experiencing stiffness in the joints is a common concern. It is important to understand that stiffness can occur due to several factors, including the nature of the injury, the surgical procedure, and the healing process.

Firstly, after any surgical intervention, especially one involving bones and joints, it is normal for the surrounding tissues to become inflamed and for the joint to stiffen. This stiffness can be exacerbated by immobilization during the healing process. In your case, since it has only been eight days post-surgery, it is still early in the recovery phase. The body is in the process of healing, and some degree of stiffness is expected.

The inability to bend your finger joint fully, particularly if it feels like it is "stuck," can be attributed to several factors:
1. Swelling and Inflammation: Post-surgical swelling can limit the range of motion. This is a natural response of the body to injury and surgery, and it usually subsides over time.

2. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can form around the joint and the surgical site, which may restrict movement. This is a common occurrence and can be managed with appropriate rehabilitation.

3. Joint Adhesions: If the joint was immobilized for a period, adhesions may develop, causing the joint to feel stiff or "locked." This is particularly common in the fingers and can lead to a condition known as joint contracture if not addressed.

4. Muscle Weakness: After a period of immobilization, the muscles around the joint may weaken, contributing to the difficulty in moving the joint.

To address your concerns, here are some recommendations:
- Follow-Up with Your Surgeon: It is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon. They can assess the healing process and determine if the stiffness is within normal limits or if further intervention is needed.

- Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide you with specific exercises to improve your range of motion and strength. They can also employ modalities to reduce swelling and pain.

- Gentle Mobilization: While it is important to avoid overexerting the finger, gentle mobilization exercises can help maintain flexibility. Start with passive movements (where someone else moves your finger) and gradually progress to active movements as tolerated.

- Ice and Elevation: To manage swelling, applying ice to the affected area and keeping your hand elevated can be helpful.

- Pain Management: If you experience pain during movement, discuss pain management options with your healthcare provider. This may include medications or injections to reduce inflammation.

- Patience and Consistency: Recovery from surgery can take time. It is essential to be patient and consistent with your rehabilitation efforts.

In conclusion, while experiencing stiffness after surgery is common, it is important to monitor your progress and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider. With appropriate care and rehabilitation, most patients can regain their range of motion and strength over time. If stiffness persists or worsens, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out complications such as joint contractures or other underlying issues.