Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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1. Hand grip With your arm supported in the sling or on a table, curl your fingers into your palm to form a gentle fist, then open your hand wide and straighten your fingers again. 10 reps x3 a day |
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2. Wrist range of movement With your arm supported in the sling or on a table, bend and straighten your wrist. 10 reps x3 a day |
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3. Elbow range of movement Stand with your arm by your side. Bend your elbow, bringing your hand towards your shoulder. Then straighten the arm back down with control. If required, you can assist the movement with the unoperated arm. 10 reps x3 a day |
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4. Palm up and down With your elbow bent, turn your forearm so your palm faces down, then rotate it the other way so your palm faces up. 10 reps x3 a day |
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5. Scapula retraction sitting Sit upright with your shoulders relaxed. Gently squeeze your shoulder blades back and down, as if you’re tucking them into your back pockets. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly relax and repeat. 10 reps x3 a day |
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6. Cradle flexion Hold your affected arm with your other hand and slowly lift it forward and upward, keeping it supported as you raise it. This can be done with your arm in the sling. 10 reps x3 a day |
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7. Pendulums Hold your affected arm with your other hand. Lean forwards, relax the affected shoulder and gently swing it forwards/backwards, side to side, and in small circles. If it feels more comfortable, this can also be done with your arm in the sling. 10 reps x3 a day |
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8. Supported shoulder outward rotation Stand tall with your arm by your side and elbow bent at a right angle, resting your forearm against your stomach. Use your other hand to gently guide your forearm outwards until your fingers point forward. Return slowly to the starting position and repeat. 10 reps x3 a day |
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Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Physiotherapy service.
About this information
Service:
Physiotherapy
Reference:
BB/065
Approval date:
30 April 2026
Review date:
1 April 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.