What should I expect from my foot surgery recovery?

There are several things to do before and after your procedure that can make your foot surgery recovery go smoothly. Depending on the type of surgery you have, recovery can take weeks to months. You may require follow-up appointments with your Dallas podiatrist to check on your progress and to remove any pins, screws, or rods if they were used as part of your procedure. Some surgeries do not require any downtime, and you may be able to resume your regular activities after having the procedure done. 

Prior to surgery, it is a good idea to plan ahead. You want to have everything you need at home, so you don’t have to leave the house. The following can help you prepare for recovery before you have surgery:

• Arrange for time off work. Since you may not be able to resume your regular work schedule after surgery, you will want to arrange for time off work, or check if you are able to work remotely.
• Ask for help. Ask a close friend or family member if they are available to help you as you recover. You may need assistance with showering, getting groceries, or other tasks around your house.
• Prepare your home. Remove any obstacles in your home that could cause you to trip or fall, or set up an area, possibly on the first floor, that doesn’t require you to traverse a set of stairs.  
• Ask questions. Ask your Dallas podiatrist questions about the procedure and what your recovery will be like. You may also want to have your doctor go over recovery instructions before your surgery.

Foot Surgery Recovery Instructions

Your experienced Dallas podiatrist will provide you with a clear list of instructions to follow after your surgery. It is important to follow the exact instructions, so your foot surgery recovery has the best possible outcome.

 The following instructions may be recommended as part of your foot surgery recovery:

• Rest. Following foot surgery, rest is critical for healing. You may be told to use ice and keep your foot elevated to reduce swelling, aka as the RICE method.
• Take pain medication. You will want to take pain medications as recommended by your doctor. These may include over-the-counter pain medication, or you may be given a prescription-strength medication.
• Modify your activities. You may not be able to resume your normal activities after surgery. You may need to make modifications to your activities depending on the type of procedure you have done.
• Use a walking aid. Many foot surgeries require that you not bear weight on the foot after surgery. You may be told to use a walking aid such as a cane, crutches, a walker, or a foot scooter to help you get around as you recover.
• Follow driving limitations. If you have surgery on your right foot, you may not be able to operate a motor vehicle until your doctor clears you to drive.

Warning Signs

As your foot surgery recovery wages on, there are some warning signs to be aware of that may require immediate medical attention. If you notice any of the following signs, contact your Dallas podiatrist as soon as possible:

• Sudden or severe pain
• Redness or warmth around the surgical site
• Fever
• Increased swelling
• Unusual drainage or bleeding

Contact Us

If you have questions about what to expect as you go through your foot surgery recovery, contact our Dallas-area podiatrists at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists. To request an appointment in our Grapevine or Keller office, call us today.