Foot surgery can be performed for a variety of reasons, varying from physical deformities to broken bones or the simple removal of calluses or bunions. Regardless of the reason for the surgery, there are certain precautions that should be taken after foot surgery to allow for proper healing and to avoid further injury. Some of these precautions include resting the foot and walking only as directed by the doctor. Medications should be taken as prescribed, and bandages should be changed as directed to help prevent infection.
After foot surgery, the patient will not be able to put any weight on the affected foot until directed to do so by the doctor. If the doctor prescribes the use of a surgical shoe, it is important to wear it as directed to prevent further injury to the foot. The foot should be elevated as much as possible after foot surgery to lower the risks of developing blood clots.
It is important to take any medications that have been prescribed by the doctor after foot surgery. Pain medication may be prescribed for use as necessary. It may be helpful to at least take this medication before bed because pain medications often help with sleep. If antibiotics are prescribed, it is important to take all of the medication, even if no negative symptoms are present.
After foot surgery, it is important to walk with some form of assistance for at least several days. Even when the discomfort starts to lessen, balance may be an issue for a while. A cane or walker can be very helpful at this time.
Ice therapy is often very helpful for a couple of days after foot surgery. An ice pack can be applied to the affected area for 30 minutes at a time. This process can be repeated several times per day as tolerated.
Proper bandage care after foot surgery is vitally important. The bandage should be kept clean and dry and should not be removed until the patient is instructed to do so by the doctor. If the bandage becomes wet or comes off on its own, the doctor should be called for instructions. If the foot, ankle, or leg becomes swollen, blue, or numb or if the patient starts to run a fever, the doctor should be consulted right away. These could be potential signs of complications and need to be checked out right away.