This section applies to all patients.
No NSAIDS such as Advil, Motrin, ibuprofen, Naprosyn, and Aleve x 2 weeks.
Pain: Tylenol for mild pain and if needed use mild narcotic provided.
Bracing: If recommended, use brace during sleep the first 2 nights if able. Sleep is more important so if you cannot sleep and use the brace, feel free to remove it.
Driving restrictions: No driving until you can safely shift and steer the vehicle.
Work restrictions: Depends on duration of lifting restrictions.
Exercise restrictions: 2 weeks relative rest then 4 weeks progressive PT.
The following may not apply to all patients. Your provider will complete this section, depending on your needs.
☐ Use wrist/thumb spica brace for _____ days
☐ You can do gentle wrist/hand/finger range of motion exercises after 2 days
☐ f/u for OT / PT in 5-7 days
Activities: In general, with strength and activities, keep pain level below 4/10.
First 2 Weeks:
Strengthening/Motion: Isometrics are good for muscles and pain control. Very gentle flexion/extension exercises are good. PT will help with range of motion.
Walking: No restrictions.
Cycling: May do gentle ride on stationary bike for 10-15 minutes, then 30 minutes after week 1.
Swimming: No swimming for the first 2 weeks.
Throwing/rock climbing/tennis: None of these the first 2 weeks.
Weeks 2-4:
Strengthening/Motion: Start gentle low load concentric/eccentric exercises with PT. Work on progressive strengthening while keeping pain below 4/10.
Cycling: No restrictions except would stay on exercise bike for 2 weeks.
Swimming: May begin gentle swimming (<=50% of usual distance and intensity) at 2 weeks. Keep pain below 4/10.
Throwing/rock climbing: No throwing or rock climbing until after 4 weeks. Do strengthening in anticipation of these activities if desired.
Weeks 4-6:
Strengthening/Motion: Progress to moderate loading and progressive strengthening of the wrist flexor/extensor muscles.
Cycling: May do road biking and trail biking; avoid mtn biking until 6 weeks.
Swimming: May increase distance and time to 75% of normal. Use buoy for rest.
Throwing/rock climbing/tennis: Can begin gentle climbing and return to throwing/tennis program at 4 weeks.