During wrist surgery, you should feel no pain because regional anesthesia is used to numb your hand and arm. However, post-operative pain levels can vary.
While you won't feel pain during the procedure, understanding what to expect afterward is important. Arthroscopic wrist surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to recover at home.
Here's a breakdown of factors affecting post-operative pain:
- Type of Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopy generally result in less pain than open surgery.
- Pain Management: Your surgeon will prescribe or recommend pain medication to manage discomfort after surgery. Follow their instructions carefully.
- Individual Pain Tolerance: People experience pain differently. What one person finds tolerable, another may find quite painful.
- Adherence to Post-Operative Instructions: Following your surgeon's instructions regarding rest, elevation, and icing can significantly reduce pain and swelling.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Existing health problems, such as arthritis, can influence your post-operative pain experience.
It's crucial to discuss your pain management plan with your surgeon before the procedure and to report any uncontrolled pain after the surgery. Physical therapy often plays a key role in rehabilitation and helps to manage pain in the long term.
In summary, you shouldn't feel pain during wrist surgery due to anesthesia. Post-operative pain is manageable with medication and adherence to your surgeon's instructions, but individual experiences vary.
