 Sound like not too bad injuries, but they're devastating injuries, mainly because the flexor tendons and the digital nerves take a long time to heal. You're talking three to six months to recover. Hand surgeon Dr. Roberto Michi says in some cases there's permanent nerve damage. How does it happen? They're holding usually the fruit or the avocado in their hand. While it's tempting to hold the avocado in your hand, even the professionals do it, doctors say the best way to avoid an injury is to place the avocado on a cutting board.