Table 3.

Postoperative management after surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome.

Postoperative Time	Management
Days 2–3	Bulky dressing, Jackson–Pratt drain and bupivacaine pump removed. Instructed in range of motion exercises for finger, wrist, forearm, elbow and shoulder. Caution against heavy lifting and full forearm supination with elbow extension. Wear sling at night and if necessary, periodically during day for comfort.
1 week	Continue with range of motion exercises. Expect full hand, wrist and shoulder range of motion but may have restriction of full forearm supination with full elbow extension. Continue with sling at night until patient achieves full range of motion. Massage and desensitization of incision.
3 weeks	Expect full range of motion by 3 to 4 weeks and emphasis to continue stretching into full forearm supination with full elbow extension. Patients who do not achieve full range of motion are referred for therapy.
4 weeks	With full range of motion, begin strengthening exercises and increase activity as tolerated.
8 weeks	Return to full activity with no restrictions.