Foot reconstruction surgery can cause drastic changes to your life. Of course, it can help mediate foot pain or help you walk better. However, recovery can be difficult, so it’s important to prepare.
Understanding what the recovery process is like can help you quell some concerns and answer questions before going into your surgery. In this guide, you’ll learn what to expect during foot reconstruction recovery.
While there isn’t one kind of reconstructive foot surgery, recovery is often very similar. Here’s what to expect and prepare for the recovery phase.
You’re Going to Need Rest
Rest is essential with any surgery, but especially when it comes to your feet. After reconstructive foot surgery, you should expect to rest a lot. Staying off your feet allows the wound to heal properly.
Because of this, you’ll most likely need crutches, which help prevent putting weight on your healing foot. Still, sitting and lying will be the best for healing after foot surgery.
You’ll Want to Elevate Your Foot
As you rest, you’ll want to keep your foot elevated. Elevation helps to reduce swelling and pressure in blood vessels. This, in turn, will aid in recovery and wound healing.
When elevating your foot, you’ll want to use ice on the wound site on and off, as the doctor suggests. You may have to continue this process for up to three weeks.
You May Have a Cast or Boot
After foot reconstruction recovery, you may have to wear a cast or a boot. If you had to have your bones reset, you would definitely require a cast to help the bones heal properly. Without reset bones, you’ll still most likely need to wear a cast or boot.
Casts and boots help ensure the wound heals properly and prevent injuries to the area. Boots are sometimes removable, while casts are more permanent. Listen to your doctor on care instructions while in a cast or boot.
You’ll Need Proper Wound Care
Proper wound care is essential. This ensures your surgery wound stays clean, so you don’t risk infection. Wound care includes changing your bandages and keeping them clean and dry.
Your surgeon will give you more in-depth instructions on how to care for your wound. It’s essential to follow these instructions exactly.
You Might Need Physical Therapy
Depending on the severity of the surgery, you may need physical therapy as part of your foot surgery recovery. Physical therapy can help you regain strength and function in your foot.
Prepare for Foot Reconstruction Surgery Recovery
Experiencing foot pain, functional impairment, or deformity may require you to have foot reconstruction surgery. Undergoing foot reconstruction surgery is serious. This is often a major surgery that can take weeks to recover from.
Before undergoing surgery, it’s important to understand what you need to have a safe and successful recovery. As you recover, it’s also important to listen to your doctor’s advice.
Dr. Flint specializes in managing foot pain from simple to severe conditions to help them live their best lives. Schedule an appointment today to improve your quality of life.
