Hand and arm swelling. Please help

[amoinet]

Hello, I just got back from Mayo after having my cast taken off. I had the full "Mayo special" done (C 7 graft, muscle transfer and intercostal nerve rerouting). When I got home I noticed that my hand and arm were swollen, more so then normal. It's been two days and the swelling hasn't gone down. Has anyone else had this happen? any suggestions on how to reduce the swelling? (other then elevating it) does the swelling get better with time? any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[admin]

Good question to ask your doctors. My son had swelling prior to the surgery. Positioning helped somewhat. The OT also prescribed a "contrast Bath". Also ask the doctors about this. As your fingers and hand have the smallest blood vessels, they will show the edema caused by incresed swelling from surgeries and trauma. Ought to go away as you body heals from the surgery. But again, ask your MD. May be something more serious.