Managing Pain and Recovery After a Finger Tendon Injury

The tendon in the middle finger of the right hand has been severed?

Doctor, my middle finger tendon in my right hand was severed by a glass baby bottle when I was about one and a half years old.
After that, I underwent surgery to repair the tendon.
A few days ago, while holding my child, I felt a sharp pain in the palm of my hand, which felt warm, and now even slight movements cause a tingling sensation (not very painful, just a prickling feeling).
I am afraid to make large movements, and for the past few days at work, typing on the keyboard and using the mouse often causes intermittent sharp pain.
What can I do to alleviate this situation? If I need to return for a follow-up, which specialty should I see?

Sandy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/01

Dr. Yin Xinbei reply Rehabilitation

You can perform local heat therapy on your own and apply a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ointment, while avoiding excessive use.
If there is no improvement, you may consider scheduling an appointment with a rehabilitation specialist.

Reply Date: 2012/03/01

More Info

Managing pain and recovery after a finger tendon injury can be a complex process, especially following a surgical repair. In your case, it sounds like you experienced a significant injury to your middle finger tendon, which required surgical intervention to reconnect the tendon. Given that you are now experiencing pain and discomfort when using your hand, it is important to understand the potential causes and appropriate management strategies.

Firstly, it is not uncommon to experience pain or discomfort after tendon repair surgery. This can be due to several factors, including inflammation, scar tissue formation, and the healing process itself. The pain you describe as a "tingling" or "stinging" sensation may indicate that the nerve endings in the area are still healing or that there is some irritation of the surrounding tissues. Additionally, the fact that you feel pain when performing activities such as typing or using a mouse suggests that you may be overexerting the tendon or surrounding muscles, which can lead to discomfort.

Here are some strategies to help manage your pain and facilitate recovery:
1. Rest and Activity Modification: It is crucial to avoid activities that exacerbate your pain. If holding a child or typing causes discomfort, consider modifying your activities or taking breaks to allow your hand to rest. Gradually reintroducing activities can help prevent overuse injuries.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, it is essential to follow the recommended dosages and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or if the pain persists.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial for recovery after tendon repair. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your finger. They can also provide modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help alleviate pain.

4. Scar Tissue Management: Scar tissue can form after surgery and may contribute to pain and limited mobility. Techniques such as massage therapy, stretching, and the use of silicone gel sheets can help manage scar tissue and improve the overall function of the finger.

5. Gradual Strengthening Exercises: Once your pain decreases, your healthcare provider may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the tendon and surrounding muscles. It is essential to follow their guidance to avoid re-injury.

6. Follow-Up Care: Since you are experiencing ongoing pain, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your orthopedic surgeon or a hand specialist. They can assess your healing progress, evaluate the pain, and determine if further intervention is necessary. Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to evaluate the tendon and surrounding structures.

In summary, managing pain and recovery after a finger tendon injury requires a multifaceted approach that includes rest, pain management, physical therapy, and follow-up care. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. It is crucial to address any concerns early to ensure optimal recovery and function of your hand.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Tendon Surgery Recovery: Key Insights and Concerns

My brother suffered a tendon injury on the back of his wrist from a glass cut two days ago, causing his right middle and ring fingers to bend involuntarily and be unable to extend. He underwent surgery under local anesthesia in the plastic surgery department at Asia University Ho...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Typically, injuries to the extensor tendons of the fingers on the dorsal side of the hand heal well after suturing. The tendons on the back of the hand are less likely to develop adhesions. Treatment for hand injuries can be effectively managed by either a hand surgeon or an orth...

Understanding Tendon Ruptures: Rehabilitation After Surgery

My uncle was injured at work when a machine crushed his hand. The orthopedic surgeon diagnosed a tendon rupture. It has been four weeks since the surgery, and he still cannot move his left hand's middle, ring, and little fingers. What could be the problem? Does he need rehab...

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. First, assess the "sensation," "joint range of motion," and "muscle strength" of the injured finger. If necessary, perform a "nerve conduction study" to det...

Rehabilitation Options for Finger Tendonitis from Computer Use

Hello, doctor! I have to work on the computer for long hours, and now I have tendonitis in my right hand fingers. Can I undergo rehabilitation? Thank you!

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses and suggestions: 1. For tendonitis, it is important to take intermittent breaks during work to reduce the risk of inflammation. 2. During the acute phase, the focus should be on medication, topical ointments, and patc...

Post-Surgery Finger Injury: Swelling, Weakness, and Nerve Concerns

Hello Doctor, I injured my left index finger on Monday afternoon, which resulted in bleeding. I went to an orthopedic clinic where they stitched it up with four stitches. The doctor mentioned there is a concern about possible nerve damage, and the worst-case scenario is that the ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! The wound looks okay. If the swelling persists, it's safer to return for a follow-up. Intermittent sharp pain within six months is common, and you can supplement with B vitamins. Once the wound has healed, you should gradually start bending your right hand to prevent ...