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 5 to 7 after surgery. During this time your tendon remains weak and needs to be protected during some activities. 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
You may now discard the wrist portion of your splint completely.
You can remove the ‘yolk’ or finger splint for light activities, here are some examples:
LIGHT Activities (max 1kg)
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However, you must continue to wear the ‘yolk’ or finger portion of your splint when you are using your hand for medium activities. This is vital to protect your hand.
MEDIUM Activities (max 5kg)
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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 your fingers into a fist. |
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5. Bend your wrist forward. |
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6. Bend your wrist backwards. |
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7. Move your wrist towards your thumb. |
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8. Move your wrist toward your little finger. |
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/113
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.