Sling |
When will I go home? |
What can I do? |
What can’t I do? |
2 weeks | You will be discharged on the same day as the operation | Rest in splint/plaster | No lifting |
Acute phase (0-2 weeks)
Goals
- Reduce pain
Rehabilitation
- Rest in plaster/splint
Intermediate phase (2-6 weeks)
Goals
- Control pain
Rehabilitation
- Change in thumb splint
- Gentle passive thumb range of movement
- No thumb opposition
- Active finger movements
- Wrist range of movement
Late phase (>6 weeks)
Goals
- Regain thumb range of movement
- Regain strength, proprioception and function
Rehabilitation
- Begin active range of movement of the thumb
- Encourage abduction, adduction, flexion and extension
- No thumb opposition until 8 weeks post surgery
- Load thumb from 8 weeks
Guidelines for return to functional activities
Driving | Lifting | Swimming | Golf |
2 weeks | 6 weeks | 2 weeks | 4 weeks |