How Do You Recover From Foot Surgery?
Follow these basic guidelines after foot surgery to decrease complications and speed recovery. Give yourself plenty of time to prop up your feet and rest. Step 1 Walk only as ordered by your physician and always wear a surgical shoe, if prescribed. Step 2 Sit with your foot elevated to the level of your chest. Place a pillow under your heel to reduce pressure on the foot. Dangle your foot only as long as is absolutely necessary for the first two to three postoperative days. Step 3 Take pain medication prescribed by your physician for surgical pain. Step 4 Walk with assistance for the first few days – lean on an arm, cane, or walker. Step 5 Put ice on your ankle – 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off – for the first two days. Ice decreases swelling and bruising by constricting blood vessels. Step 6 Keep bandage clean and dry. That means keeping it out of the shower or tub. If you want to shower, wrap your foot in a large plastic bag and tape the opening closed around your calf. If you prefe
