Managing After Surgery on Dominent Arm - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

sivyaleah · 09-01-2005, 09:13 AM

I have been having an ulnar nerve problem for quite some time now (actually, it's a "double crush" to be exact - pinched nerve in neck too affecting the other arm as well) and am finally getting to the point where I'm considering surgery.

I'm right-handed. Obviously I'm aware I'll be out of commission from work for a couple of weeks minimum, however, I was wondering how everyone dealt with their daily lives when their predominent arm/hand is immobolized. Thankfully, I have no kids to worry about, and my husband is very self-sufficient. But, I'm worred about my own hygiene to put it bluntly. I mean, I guess people manage with their other arm for a while, but it seems to awkward!

So, sorry for the petty post - but this is really a concern to me. All I can say is it's a good thing my house has a bidet in the master bath LOL!

julesmba · 09-02-2005, 02:15 AM

Dear Sivyaleah

I have just had a bilateral carpal release operation and I also was very concerned how I would deal with personal hygeine.

My experience has been that for about three days I could not look after myself when toiletting as I could not put pressure on my hand/fingers without pain and a sort of electrical impulse in my hand. I had to rely on my husband who took a week off work -he has just gone back today.

My stitches have stayed in for the maximum of 10 days so they will be removed tomorrow. As I can not get the wounds wet my husband has showered me also. I did get the bandage removed on Wednesday so I will be putting gloves over the stick on plasters and sealing the gloves for my first shower on my own today!

The other problem was I had to sleep in a chair for about 3 days as I had to keep my hands up and it hurt not to.

All of these things may seem awful, but you must remember that all the carpal tunnel pain in my shoulders, arms and hands disappeared almost immediately!!! Well worth it I would say after years of pain - I already feel ten years younger - honestly.

Best Wishes

Julie

sivyaleah · 09-02-2005, 07:07 AM

Thanks Julie. I've been sort of "practicing" using my left hand for certain tasks, not so easy.
I've already had my husband have to help me shower on a few occassions, once when I all but broke an ankle, when I had gallbladder surgery and last, when I had knee surgery. So that part of it I'm not worred about :-)
Like I said, I guess it is a good thing we have a bidet - maybe I'll be able to avoid having to have him help me in the more "personal" tasks :-)

Thanks again!
Laurie

julesmba · 09-03-2005, 02:19 PM

Dear Laurie

Good luck with your surgery and don't be too proud to take the help you will need - it's probably only for a few days!

Best Wishes

Julie