Should I Rest or Rehab After Nerve Release Surgery for Elbow Issues?

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You have undergone a neurolysis surgery on January 6th.
Currently, the radial head has not yet united.
The elbow range of motion is from 20 to 120 degrees.
Should I rest or start rehabilitation?

g, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/13

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics

In the case of an unhealed radial head fracture, priority should be given to fracture healing, while also allowing for the healing of any nerve decompression surgery if necessary.
For detailed circumstances, it is advisable to consult and discuss with the attending physician.

Reply Date: 2016/01/13

More Info

After undergoing nerve release surgery for elbow issues, the decision to rest or engage in rehabilitation (rehab) is crucial for your recovery. Given your current condition, where the radial head has not fully healed and your elbow range of motion is limited to 20-120 degrees, a balanced approach is necessary.

Understanding the Recovery Process
1. Initial Rest Period: Immediately following surgery, it is essential to allow your body some time to heal. This initial rest period typically lasts for a few days to a week, depending on your surgeon's recommendations. During this time, you should avoid any strenuous activities or movements that could stress the surgical site.

2. Gradual Introduction of Rehabilitation: After the initial rest period, rehabilitation becomes vital. Physical therapy can help restore function, improve range of motion, and strengthen the muscles around the elbow. Engaging in rehab too early can risk complications, but waiting too long can lead to stiffness and loss of function.

3. Consult Your Surgeon or Therapist: It is crucial to follow the advice of your healthcare team. They will assess your healing progress and determine when it is appropriate to start rehabilitation exercises. They may recommend specific exercises that are safe for your current range of motion and healing status.

Rehabilitation Goals
- Improve Range of Motion: Since your elbow is currently limited to 20-120 degrees, a primary goal of rehab will be to gradually increase this range. Gentle stretching exercises, as advised by your therapist, can help achieve this.

- Strengthening: Once you have regained some range of motion, strengthening exercises will be introduced to support the elbow joint and prevent future injuries. This may include resistance training with bands or light weights.

- Pain Management: Throughout the rehab process, managing pain is essential. Your therapist may use modalities such as ice, heat, or electrical stimulation to help alleviate discomfort.

Signs to Monitor
While engaging in rehab, it is essential to monitor your body’s response. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or any unusual symptoms, you should stop the activity and consult your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, after nerve release surgery for elbow issues, a combination of rest and rehabilitation is necessary for optimal recovery. Start with a period of rest as advised by your surgeon, then gradually introduce rehabilitation exercises under the guidance of a physical therapist. This approach will help ensure that you regain function while minimizing the risk of complications. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team to tailor your recovery plan to your specific needs.

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