Healthy feet are essential to day-to-day activities, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs. Unfortunately, injury, infections, or birth defects can affect the anatomy of a foot and cause issues. In this type of situation, a podiatrist may recommend foot reconstruction surgery as a form of treatment to correct the problem and restore proper foot function. Most people have good outcomes from foot reconstruction surgery, but there is a recovery period after the procedure. If your podiatrist has recommended foot reconstruction surgery, it is in your best interest to be ready for when you come home from the hospital or surgery center. Use the following tips to help you prepare for foot reconstruction surgery:
Ask a Friend or Family Member to Help You
After your foot reconstruction surgery is completed, you will have to avoid bearing weight on your operated foot for an extended period of time. Thus, it can be very useful to have a friend or family member available to assist you for several days. You will not be able to drive a vehicle, so you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital or surgery center. It will also be helpful to know that you have someone available to run errands and also drive you to your follow-up appointment with your surgeon. Having a friend or family member come to your home and help with chores and meal preparation can also make your life much easier.
Create a Comfortable Recovery Space in Your Home
While your foot is healing from surgery, you will need to get a lot of rest and keep your foot elevated. Thus, it is a very smart idea to create a comfortable recovery space in your home prior to your surgery date. Make sure that your recovery space is easy to get in and out of — some people prefer to create a recovery space on the couch or recliner, while others prefer their bed. If you have a two-story home, make sure that your recovery space is on the first floor, since you will not be able to climb stairs in the days following your surgery.
Stock Up on Essentials
In the days leading up to your surgery, take the time to stock up on essentials that you will need after surgery. It is recommended to have everything that you will need for at least a week. You may want to purchase ice packs, over-the-counter pain medication, and a waterproof cover for your foot so you can shower without worrying about getting the dressing or boot wet. In addition, make sure you have an ample amount of healthy food to consume during your recovery period.
Your feet are more complex than you might realize. You have the tarsal bones in your ankle, the metatarsals that form the top of your foot, and the phalanges that form your toes. Then, there is a complex set of ligaments and tendons that form the joints and attach muscles to the bones of your feet and ankles. With all of these moving parts, it's no wonder people often develop foot pain. Luckily, podiatrists know how to manage that pain. They can identify its source and recommend physical therapy, therapeutic shoes, or even surgery to make you comfortable again. As you keep reading on this website, you'll learn more about their work.