Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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What should I be aware of?
Your limb may appear thinner than it used to be and may also feel a little weak, stiff and vulnerable at the moment - this is all very common. As you now start to move it, any stiff joints will soon loosen up and the muscles will start to strengthen.
You can help to loosen any stiff joints by having a warm bath or placing your limb in a bowl of warm water. The water will help to support your limb and allow you to move it more easily.
There may still be some residual bruising, which will soon fade.
It can also be quite common to experience mild aches and pains after the cast has been removed. It may be helpful to take a mild painkiller to help with this (Do follow the dosage instructions!).
Swelling of the limb is also common. Continue to elevate and rest the affected limb. You can also use ice now to help ease any swelling.
Mobility
You can start to use your limb for light duties and gentle exercise now. The doctor will advise you on when you can return to contact sports or high impact sports. Swimming can usually start relatively soon and is good gentle way to restore function to your limb.
If you have been supplied with any limb supports (e.g., wrist support / walking boot, etc.), you should wear them in accordance with the doctors instructions.
After cast removal on the lower limb, please use both of your crutches, or any other walking aids, for a short while afterwards. They will help you to get used to walking normally again. Gradually wean yourself off them as the strength in your leg/ankle improves. (Young children may walk with a limp or with the affect leg/foot turned outwards. This is usual and will return to normal.)
Any other issues that may occur?
You may notice some dry, flaky skin, and in the case of the foot, hard skin. Gentle washing and moisturising will help to get rid of this. Don’t be tempted to exfoliate the skin, as this will only irritate your already sensitive skin.
Once fully healed, massaging any new scar tissue with creams or oils will help to desensitise the area.
Do not wax or shave legs for a minimum of 7 days. Your skin will need time to settle down, so any early epilation will only result in a nasty razor rash!
As your skin is very sensitive at the moment, you will need to be particularly careful in strong sunlight. Be sure to apply a high factor sun cream or total sunblock when venturing out in the sun. New scars will also be prone to burning.
Returning to work/school/driving
Your doctor will advise when you can return to normal work / school activities. He/she will also be able to give you an idea about when you can return to driving. It is also wise to consult your insurance company to confirm that you will be fully covered when you do start driving again.
Any questions, please contact the Plaster Room for advice on:
Contact details
The contact number for the Plaster Room at Frimley Park is: 0300 6134339
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
The contact number for the Plaster Room at Wexham Park is: 0300 6154058
Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9am – 5pm
Wednesday 9am – 1pm (closed in the afternoon)
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Plaster room service.
About this information
Service:
Plaster room
Reference:
N/045
Approval date:
1 November 2025
Review date:
1 November 2028
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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.