Hand injuries can be debilitating, preventing you from being able to work, support yourself, and care for your family. However, with the proper treatment and rehabilitation, it is possible to make a full recovery and return to work.
Remember that what you do after a hand injury is just as important as the initial treatment you receive. The following are some tips from a hand injury specialist about returning to work after an injury:
1. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
It is essential to follow your doctor’s orders when returning to work. If you try to return to work too soon, you could end up making your injury worse.
Your doctor’s instructions will depend on your previous condition. But these instructions generally include the following:
- How long to rest
- When to start using the injured hand again
- The type of therapy or rehabilitation you will need
If you had an upper extremity surgery, you could expect to take at least 6 weeks off work.
2. Set Realistic Goals
After an injury, set realistic goals for your return to work. You may not be able to return to work immediately, or you may need to start with reduced hours.
You may also need to change what you do in the meantime. If your job requires heavy lifting, for example, you may need to find a different position that is less physically demanding.
3. Talk to Your Employer
Before returning to work, talk to your employer about your injury and what accommodations you may need. They may need to do the following to accommodate you:
- Modify your job duties
- Change your work schedule
- Allow you to use adaptive equipment
4. Get Back into a Routine, But Slowly
After an injury, get back into a routine slowly. If you try to do too much too soon, you could end up making your injury worse.
Start with small goals and work your way up. For example, if you typically work 8 hours a day, start with 4 hours a day. Gradually increase your hours as you feel more comfortable.
Don’t do vigorous and physically demanding activities right away. Instead, focus on low-impact exercises that will help you rebuild your strength and range of motion.
5. Attend Therapy Sessions Regularly
If your doctor has recommended physical or occupational therapy, attend the sessions regularly. Your therapist will help you gradually regain strength and range of motion in your hand.
The therapists will also teach you how to use any adaptive equipment you may need.
If you underwent upper extremity surgery, you likely need to attend therapy sessions 2-3 times a week for 4-6 weeks.
6. Take Breaks as Needed
When returning to work, take breaks as needed. If you are feeling pain, rest your hand and don’t push through.
You may also need to take more frequent breaks than usual. For example, you may need it every hour or so if your job is physically demanding.
7. Use Pain Medication as Directed
If you are in pain, use medication as directed by your doctor. That will help you stay comfortable while you are working.
8. Be Patient
You must be patient after a hand injury. It may take some time for your hand to heal completely.
Do not try to rush your recovery. If you do, you could end up making your injury worse.
9. See Your Doctor if You Have Any Problems
See your doctor right away if you have any problems at the site of your injury. The doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan, or you may need to make changes to what you’re able to do at your job during your recovery.
Hand Injury Specialist in Maryland
Returning to work after a hand injury can be challenging. However, you can make a full recovery with the help of the right treatment plan. Follow your doctor’s orders, set realistic goals, and be patient. If you have any problems, see your doctor right away.
Do you need a reliable hand injury specialist in Maryland? Look no further than Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder. We have compassionate and experienced providers who can give you the best hand care possible. We have offices in numerous locations throughout the state – including in Baltimore, Bel Air, Clarksville, Eldersburg, Lutherville, Pasadena, and Westminister, MD – so there’s bound to be a location close to you!
Call our friendly staff at (410) 296-6232 to learn more about our comprehensive healthcare services. You may also use our secure request form to book an appointment with the best hand doctor in Maryland.
We look forward to serving you!
