I am a baggage handler for a large airport. I’m going to have surgery to repair a bone in my wrist damaged from Kienbock’s disease. Will I get my full grip strength back after the operation?

Surgery is the advised treatment for advanced cases of Kienbock’s disease. There’s a loss of blood supply to the lunate bone in the wrist. Tiny fractures and collapse of the bone result in pain, loss of motion, and weakness.

The operation is designed to restore blood to the area and fuse the bones in place. Studies show that range of motion and grip strength are much improved after the operation. However, they may not return to normal.

Before returning to work, a physical or occupational therapist will measure your motion and strength. Your doctor will release you to return to work when you can do your job without reinjury. Recovery from the surgery takes six to eight weeks. Rehab may take an equal amount of time.