Numbness After Distal Radius Fracture Surgery: Causes and Recovery

Distal radius fracture

Hello, doctor.
I sustained a distal radius fracture on November 25, 2020, and underwent surgery the following day to have a plate and screws inserted for stabilization.
It has been over a month since the surgery, and I am experiencing significant numbness in my thumb, index finger, and part of my palm.
What could be causing this condition? Could the numbness in my hand be related to nerve damage in the area, possibly linked to the surgery? How long might this numbness persist? I would appreciate your detailed explanation.
Thank you, doctor.

Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/27

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, numbness in the thumb and part of the index finger is often related to the superficial branch of the radial nerve.
If there is a comminuted fracture with significant soft tissue swelling, prolonged numbness for several months is possible.
The surgery typically approaches from the palmar side, which may affect the median nerve, leading to numbness in the middle and ring fingers.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2020/12/27

More Info

After undergoing surgery for a distal radius fracture, experiencing numbness in the thumb, index finger, and part of the palm is not uncommon. This numbness can be attributed to several factors, including nerve irritation or compression, swelling, or even the surgical procedure itself.
When a fracture occurs, especially in the wrist area, there is a risk of injury to the nearby nerves, particularly the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. If the fracture or the subsequent swelling compresses this nerve, it can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand. Additionally, during surgery, the positioning of the arm and the surgical manipulation can also contribute to temporary nerve irritation.

The timeline for recovery from numbness can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, if the numbness is due to swelling or temporary nerve irritation, it may improve within weeks to a few months as the swelling decreases and the nerve heals. However, if there is more significant nerve damage or if the numbness persists beyond a few months, further evaluation may be necessary.

In your case, since it has been over a month since your surgery, it is essential to monitor the symptoms closely. If the numbness does not improve or worsens, it would be advisable to follow up with your orthopedic surgeon or a neurologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies, to assess the status of the nerves and determine if there is any ongoing compression or injury.

In the meantime, there are several strategies you can employ to help manage your symptoms and promote recovery:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help improve mobility and strength in your wrist and hand. A therapist can provide exercises tailored to your recovery and help alleviate some of the numbness.

2. Elevation and Ice: Keeping your hand elevated and applying ice can help reduce swelling, which may relieve pressure on the nerves.

3. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: As tolerated, performing gentle range of motion exercises can help maintain flexibility and circulation in the hand, which may aid in reducing numbness.

4. Avoiding Pressure: Be mindful of how you position your arm and hand during daily activities. Avoiding positions that put pressure on the wrist can help minimize irritation to the nerves.

5. Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce swelling and discomfort, but consult with your physician before taking any new medications.

6. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. If you notice any new symptoms, such as increased pain, weakness, or changes in sensation, report these to your doctor promptly.

In conclusion, while numbness after distal radius fracture surgery can be concerning, it is often a temporary condition that improves with time and appropriate care. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation is necessary to ensure there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and recovery progress.

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