Can I Do Push-Ups After a Left Wrist Radius Fracture Surgery? - Orthopedics

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After a left wrist radius fracture surgery, it's understandable to want to return to physical activities like push-ups, especially if you were active before the injury. However, there are several factors to consider before resuming such exercises.

Firstly, the healing process of a bone fracture typically takes about 6 to 8 weeks for initial healing, but full recovery can take several months. At three months post-surgery, you may have a good amount of healing, but it’s essential to assess your range of motion, strength, and pain levels before engaging in push-ups.
Push-ups require significant strength and stability in the wrist, and if your wrist is still healing or if you experience pain during the movement, it may not be advisable to perform them just yet. It’s crucial to ensure that you have regained adequate strength and mobility in your wrist. A physical therapist can provide you with specific exercises to strengthen your wrist and assess your readiness for push-ups.

Regarding the tingling sensation in your little finger, this could be a sign of nerve irritation or compression, which can occur after wrist injuries. The ulnar nerve runs near the wrist and can be affected by swelling or changes in the wrist structure post-surgery. While some residual sensations can be normal as nerves heal, persistent tingling should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. They may recommend specific exercises or therapies to help alleviate this sensation.

In summary, before attempting push-ups, consider the following steps:
1. Consult Your Doctor or Physical Therapist: They can assess your wrist's healing status and provide personalized advice on when to safely resume push-ups or other exercises.

2. Gradual Progression: If cleared for push-ups, start with modified versions (like wall push-ups or knee push-ups) to gauge your wrist's response before progressing to full push-ups.

3. Listen to Your Body: If you experience pain or discomfort during any exercise, stop immediately and consult your healthcare provider.

4. Address Nerve Symptoms: If the tingling persists or worsens, seek medical advice to rule out any complications.

Returning to physical activity after an injury is a gradual process, and ensuring that your wrist is fully healed and functional will help prevent re-injury and promote a successful recovery.