Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
One or more of the tendons that straighten your fingers have been repaired. If too much stress is placed on the tendon it is at risk of breaking (rupture).
This information sheet is a guide for weeks 3 to 5 after surgery. During this time your tendon remains very weak and needs to still be protected in your splints to reduce the stress placed on the tendon repair. It is vital that you follow these instructions so that your hand can heal and work as well as possible.
Problems you may encounter
Please contact the therapy department should you experience any of the following problems:
- If you are unable to lift your finger/s, this may mean your tendon has ruptured.
- If you are exercising and feels a ‘pop’ sensation and the finger is no longer able to straighten.
- Increase in Swelling/Stiffness/Pain.
- Skin irritation/soreness or splint rubbing.
- If your hand or fingers turn blue, feel cold or tingle – check straps are not too tight.
- If the splint feels loose when swelling reduces.
Splint wear
Two thermoplastic splints have been made for you to wear to protect your hand after surgery.
The “yoke” portion around your fingers must continue to remain on at all times.
You may now remove the wrist splint for your continued light activities, but you must put it back on for sleeping or when in busy crowded places.
LIGHT Activities (max 1kg)
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Scar management
You will have already been shown how to massage your scar. You must use a non-perfumed cream (such as E45 or Nivea) and massage over the scar in small, firm circular motions. You must do this for short periods, several times a day.
Precautions
Do not remove your finger splint for any reason (including when sleeping and bathing).
Do not lift anything heavy with your hand.
Do not drive or operate machinery. We advise no driving until eight weeks after your surgery.
Do not participate in any sporting activities.
Exercises
Complete all exercises 5 times every 2 hours with a 5 second hold.
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1. Straighten all your fingers. |
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2. Bend at your knuckles keeping the finger joints straight. |
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3. Bend your finger joints into a hook shape. |
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4. Bend all fingers into a fist. |
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5. Bend your wrist forward - keep your fingers relaxed. |
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6. Bend your wrist backwards - keep your fingers relaxed. |
Contact details
Hand therapy departments: (Lines open 8.30-15.30, Monday – Friday). In an emergency, seek medical advice from a GP or local accident or minor injuries unit.
0300 6133396 for Frimley
0300 6140540 then Option 2 Wexham or Option 3 for Heatherwood
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Hand therapy service.
About this information
Service:
Hand therapy
Reference:
UU/114
Approval date:
23 February 2026
Review date:
1 February 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.