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What Causes Weakness In Arm After A Surgery For Tennis Elbow?
Question: Following surgery for tennis elbow (mid September) my arm is weak and sometimes "dead" with some pain in tendons in my hand?
Brief Answer:
Complete recovery may take months,Gabapentin empirically and adequate rehab
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
Post operative Physical rehabilitation in combination with tendon rest is required to restore flexibility and build upon muscle strength.
While return to daily activities without pain is often possible within weeks, return to sports or heavy use of the arm can take several months depending upon the recovery and care.
I would empirically advise Gabapentin 300 mg tds and diclofenac sodium 100 mg SR bd with PPI cover like Esomeprazole for two weeks to see for improvement. A physical examination would be required to rule out any significant inflammation so as to warrant a cortisone shot, Your doctor will be in a better position to decide upon that. He would also look for any possible late complications that might have occurred post operatively.
Work ergonomics and muscle strengthening exercises in consult with a physiotherapist would make a major difference in the overall recovery.
Alternatives like acupuncture, topical nitric oxide, shock wave therapy, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be tested if the pain persists despite adequate rehab.
wishing you best of health
thanks
Complete recovery may take months,Gabapentin empirically and adequate rehab
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
Post operative Physical rehabilitation in combination with tendon rest is required to restore flexibility and build upon muscle strength.
While return to daily activities without pain is often possible within weeks, return to sports or heavy use of the arm can take several months depending upon the recovery and care.
I would empirically advise Gabapentin 300 mg tds and diclofenac sodium 100 mg SR bd with PPI cover like Esomeprazole for two weeks to see for improvement. A physical examination would be required to rule out any significant inflammation so as to warrant a cortisone shot, Your doctor will be in a better position to decide upon that. He would also look for any possible late complications that might have occurred post operatively.
Work ergonomics and muscle strengthening exercises in consult with a physiotherapist would make a major difference in the overall recovery.
Alternatives like acupuncture, topical nitric oxide, shock wave therapy, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be tested if the pain persists despite adequate rehab.
wishing you best of health
thanks
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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