There are a lot of factors that allow return to work. The below information is a guide that providers use to do the final determination. Returning to work should always be done with caution and under the guidance of your doctor. It is important to take care of yourself while recovering to return to work as soon as possible safely and effectively.
Return to Work (Soft tissue mass excisions, Carpal tunnel release, Trigger Finger, DeQuervains tendon release, Simple Lacerations)
Low Intensity Jobs
Occasional typing, writing, answering phone calls – return to work can usually occur within 2 weeks of hand surgery.
Moderate Intensity Jobs
Jobs that require more typing, writing, and manual labor – return to work can usually occur within four to six weeks of hand surgery. For the first few months, you may need to adjust your job duties or take additional breaks to allow your body to adjust and heal properly.
High Intensity Jobs
Jobs that require heavy lifting, manual labor, or extensive use of the hands – return to work can usually occur after 2-5 months of hand surgery depending on the severity of the injury and your recovery. During this time, you may need to make significant adjustments to return to work.
Low Intensity Jobs
Occasional typing, writing, answering phone calls – return to work can usually occur within 4-6 weeks of fracture surgery or 6-8 weeks after a hand or wrist fracture.
Moderate Intensity Jobs
Jobs that require more typing, writing, and manual labor – return to work can usually occur within 2-3 months of fracture surgery or 2- 5 months after a hand or wrist fracture.
High Intensity Jobs
Jobs that require heavy lifting, manual labor, or extensive use of the hands – return to work can usually occur after 3-5 months of fracture surgery or 4-6 months after a hand or wrist fracture. During this time, you may need to make significant adjustments to return to work.