Carpal Tunnel Release Protocol

Remove dressing 5 days after surgery. You may cover the incision with a DRY, CLEAN bandage or dressing
You may shower and clean the incision with running water and light soap
NEVER soak the incision in bath, swimming pool, hot tub until instructed by Dr. Cinats
DO NOT use antiseptics, antibiotics, or creams on the incision
ELEVATE the operated limb and ice as much as possible for the first 48-72 hours after surgery
You will be seen by Dr. Cinats in the clinic approximately 14 days after your surgery to check your incision and have your sutures removed

Begin moving and wiggling the fingers IMMEDIATELY after surgery. This helps with swelling and pain control
Progress to making a full fist by 24-48 hours after surgery
AVOID lifting, pushing, or pulling more than 5lbs with the operated limb for 2 weeks after surgery

Your wrist has been injected with a local freezing which lasts 12-18 hours
You should start taking pain medication before the freezing wears off to ensure you stay on top of pain
The below medications are usually safe for most patients, but certain medical conditions may limit your ability to take these medications
PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING ANY MEDICATION
The first medications you should take are Tylenol and Advil
- Tylenol 1000mg every 6 hours
- Advil 400mg every 6 hours
If you pain is not controlled by alternating Tyenol and Advil, you can take the narcotic medication that has been prescribed