Undergoing Surgery For A Pinched Ulnar Nerve

Calvin,

Not knowing anything about your condition or what caused it..

If I have a severely pinched nerve that required surgery to correct it I would take everything the doctor said seriously and follow all of his/her instructions. At 14 years old, the last thing you want to do is cause further harm or damage to your nerve, hand or fingers. Damage that you could have prevented.

The first thing I would do is to not play anymore computer games between now and Friday if that is what caused it or if playing computer games is a source of irritation for your pinched nerve. I would also not put any pressure on the ulnar nerve area. You might consider some type of temporary protection for your ulnar nerve area like wrapping your arm with a towel or loose ace bandage, something to shield the affected area and to help keep your arm straight at night when you sleep.

Depending on your condition (and what the doctor told you to do and what not to do) exercise your hand and fingers.

Make a list of questions to ask your doctor (if you don't already know the answers) and ask them before your surgery. Ask about any thing that concerns you or that you have a question about. Usually the doctor meets with you before surgery. Some typical questions would be (if they are pertinent to you):

- Will the numbness go away? How long will it take?
- Will my finger/hand strength return? How long will it take?
- Will my fingers straighten out? How long will it take?
- Ask about playing video games after the surgery
- How long will the incision take to heal?
- Are there any vitamins or supplements you should buy for after the surgery?
- Will there be any physical therapy needed after surgery?


Also before you do anything about your pinched nerve I would run it by my parents to make sure it's OK.

Good luck in your surgery.

Tanner

Related Posts/Links:

1. How Long Does It Take For Nerves To Heal?
2. Muscle Atrophy & Ulnar Nerve Damage