How Does Foot Surgery Affect Overall Health?
Risks of Foot Surgery Foot surgery often becomes necessary when pain from an injury or deformity is persistent and footwear cannot be worn comfortably. While the purpose of foot surgery usually is to reduce pain, complications can occur. A blood clot forming in a deep vein in the legs always is a risk when people are confined to bed for several days. Inactivity is a primary cause of blood clots, especially if blood vessels have been damaged by an injury or surgery. If the clot breaks lose, it can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. Symptoms such as swelling, aching or a change of color in the legs should be reported immediately to your doctor. Slow healing is another risk factor; however, performing special exercises during the period following surgery can help to reduce the risk. Additional Risks Infection is another risk following foot surgery, but usually can be managed with antibiotics. Although infection involving the bone is rare, it can present serious complications if
