There are many different types of surgical procedures that can be completed on the foot. Common types of surgery include bunions surgery, ankle surgery, hammertoe surgery, fusions of the joints and removals of ganglion cysts on the feet.
Each type of foot surgery procedure will have a different recovery time. In addition, the age of the patient, the overall health condition of the individual and even the body’s ability to heal will all be factors that can shorten or lengthen the typical time for recovery.
Talk to the Surgeon
While articles on the internet will provide you with general information on recovery after foot surgery, write down the questions you have and talk to your surgeon about these issues. They will be able to provide a more complete and personalized timeline after the
procedure.
Ask about immediate care after the procedure. Will you need to change the dressing or keep the foot elevated? Will you need assistance in your home to move around, prepare meals and complete daily activities?
Rest and Limited Activity
With most, but not all foot surgery procedures, there will be some time when you will need to avoid bearing any weight on the foot. This can be a few days to significantly longer after the surgery. You may have a fiberglass or other type of cast in place and you will use crutches, a wheelchair or a leg caddy to move about.
After this period, which will be assessed by your doctor, you will be moved to limited activity and weight bearing. This period may require the use of a boot walker with or without crutches.
Typically, the boot walker is removed when you are inactive and for sleep, aiding in air circulation and natural healing of the area. It is important to follow all instructions and to avoid rushing the healing process.
If you are going to have foot surgery, talk to the surgeons at Suburban Orthopaedics in advance to plan for your recovery. To schedule a consultation or to find out more go to www.suburbanortho.com. You can follow them on Twitter for latest news and updates!
