Wrist Fusion, also known as wrist arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate pain and improve stability in the wrist joint by permanently fusing the bones. This procedure is often recommended for severe arthritis or irreparable joint damage.

This guide covers the details of wrist fusion surgery, recovery expectations, rehabilitation, and how Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health can support you through pre-habilitation and post-operative care.

Wrist Fusion: A Comprehensive Guide to Surgery, Recovery, and Rehabilitation

What is Wrist Fusion?

Wrist fusion involves permanently joining the bones of the wrist, typically using screws, plates, or bone grafts. By eliminating motion at the joint, the surgery reduces pain caused by inflammation or instability.

Conditions Treated by Wrist Fusion:

• Severe arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid or osteoarthritis).

• Post-traumatic arthritis from previous injuries.

• Advanced avascular necrosis of wrist bones.

• Chronic wrist instability or deformity.

The Wrist Fusion Procedure

1. Pre-Surgical Preparation

• Imaging Tests: X-rays or CT scans assess the joint’s condition.

• Conservative Treatments: Medications, splinting, and physiotherapy are explored first.

• Pre-Hab Program: Focus on strengthening the forearm and hand muscles to compensate for limited wrist motion post-surgery.

2. Surgical Process

• Duration: 1.5–3 hours.

• Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia.

• Steps:

  1. An incision is made to access the wrist joint.

  2. Damaged cartilage is removed from the wrist bones.

  3. The bones are aligned and secured using a metal plate, screws, or bone grafts.

  4. The incision is closed, and a cast or splint is applied.

Types of Wrist Fusion

• Partial Fusion: Only specific bones are fused, preserving some wrist motion.

• Total Fusion: All wrist bones are fused, completely eliminating wrist motion.

Recovery Timeline After Wrist Fusion

Short-Term Recovery

• Hospital Stay: Outpatient or overnight stay, depending on complexity.

• Splinting: A splint or cast is worn for 6–12 weeks.

• Pain Management: Medications and icing are essential.

Long-Term Recovery

• 6–12 Weeks: Initial healing of the fused bones.

• 3–6 Months: Gradual adaptation to the fused wrist.

• 12+ Months: Full strength and pain relief achieved.

Rehabilitation After Wrist Fusion

Phase 1: Immobilization and Healing (Weeks 1–6)

• Focus: Protect the fusion site and reduce swelling.

• Therapeutic Goals: Prevent finger and forearm stiffness.

• Exercises:

  • Finger range-of-motion exercises.

  • Gentle forearm rotations.

Phase 2: Mobility and Strengthening (Weeks 7–12)

• Focus: Regain hand and forearm function.

• Therapeutic Goals: Build grip strength and adapt to limited motion.

• Exercises:

  • Hand strengthening with therapy putty.

  • Gradual introduction of weight-bearing activities.

Phase 3: Functional Adaptation (Months 3–6)

• Focus: Return to daily activities and prevent compensatory strain.

• Therapeutic Goals: Optimize hand use and improve ergonomics.

• Exercises:

  • Task-specific training for work or hobbies.

  • Proprioception and fine motor skill enhancement.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Pre-Habilitation Services

• Tailored exercise plans to strengthen surrounding muscles.

• Education on adapting to a fused wrist.

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

• Custom physiotherapy programs to maximize hand and arm function.

• Strategies to prevent compensatory overuse of the shoulder or elbow.

• Guidance on returning to work and recreational activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I lose all wrist movement after a total fusion?

Yes, wrist motion will be eliminated, but pain relief and improved stability often outweigh this limitation.

2. When can I return to work?

• Desk jobs: 2–4 weeks.

• Manual labor: 3–6 months.

3. What are the risks of wrist fusion?

Possible complications include infection, hardware failure, and adjacent joint arthritis.

Book Your Pre-Hab or Rehab Program Today!

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we specialize in supporting patients before and after wrist fusion surgery.

Reputable Australian Resources

• Better Health Channel – Wrist Fusion: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/wrist-fusion

• Health Direct Australia: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/wrist-fusion

• Australian Orthopaedic Association: https://www.aoa.org.au