Why Is Physical Therapy Important After Ulnar Nerve Surgery?

After the ulnar nerve is surgically relocated to a safer position near the elbow, your body needs time to heal and adjust. Without proper rehabilitation, scar tissue, stiffness, or weakness can limit your recovery.

Physical therapy helps to:

• Reduce swelling and pain

• Prevent joint stiffness and muscle atrophy

• Restore range of motion in the elbow, wrist, and fingers

• Strengthen surrounding muscles

• Improve nerve mobility and reduce scar tissue formation

What to Expect from Post-Surgery Rehab

1. Initial Recovery Phase (0–2 weeks post-op)

• Your arm will be immobilized in a splint to protect the surgical site.

• You’ll be advised to avoid lifting or bending the elbow.

• Gentle wrist, hand, and finger movements may be encouraged to prevent stiffness.

2. Early Mobilization (2–6 weeks)

• Once cleared by your surgeon, physical therapy begins with gentle range-of-motion exercises.

• Your therapist may use nerve gliding techniques to help the ulnar nerve move freely without irritation.

• Light stretching and soft tissue massage may be introduced to reduce tightness and swelling.

3. Strengthening Phase (6–12 weeks)

• As healing progresses, your therapy will shift to include strengthening exercises for the forearm, wrist, and hand.

• Focus is placed on improving grip strength and fine motor skills.

4. Return to Normal Activity (3 months and beyond)

• You’ll gradually resume everyday activities, sports, or job-related tasks.

• Your therapist will guide you through task-specific movements to ensure a safe return to work or hobbies.

Personalized Therapy for Long-Term Success

No two patients are the same. At POSMC, our licensed physical therapists work closely with your orthopedic surgeon to create a custom rehab planbased on your surgical outcome, lifestyle, and recovery goals.

Whether you’re an office worker, an athlete, or someone who just wants to regain full use of their hand, our team is here to help you recover faster and stronger.

Trust POSMC for Comprehensive Elbow Care

From diagnosis to surgery and through your final therapy session, Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Centeroffers full-spectrum care. Our physical therapy department is conveniently located and staffed with experienced therapists who understand orthopedic recovery inside and out.