Is Foot Surgery in Your Near Future?
At NY Foot Health, we know many patients put off “elective” foot and ankle surgery during the COVID crisis. In fact, a new problem arising from the pandemic is patients who are now way overdue for surgery and suffering from problems such as bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, neuromas, and tendon issues. Continuing to wait will only increase the damage and lengthen the post-operative recovery time for your condition. Most NY podiatrists are back to being in their offices. Contact your foot doctor and discuss any existing or new problems to see if surgery is recommended. If you need to find a podiatrist near you, use our online directory.
Except for emergencies, foot surgery is usually only resorted to when conservative measures fail to relieve painful symptoms. Many deformities are progressive, and at some point, the podiatrist may determine the only path to correcting a problem and restoring the function of your foot is through a surgical procedure.
Prepping for the Best Outcome
If your foot doctor has said surgery is the best choice for you, there are several steps you can take to prepare for an upcoming operation. Getting the facts ahead of time, and planning for your recovery will help the whole process go more smoothly. Below are some suggestions to help you:
Understand your surgical procedure. Your podiatrist will explain how the surgery will be done and also the expected outcome. If you don’t understand any part of what was discussed, don’t hesitate to ask the foot doctor to go over it again.
Get the logistics. Will your surgery be done in an outpatient center or the hospital? How long should it take to complete the procedure? Will you need to stay overnight in the hospital? What type of anesthesia will be used?
Schedule all pre-testing in the appropriate time frame before the surgery.
How long will you need to be out of work? Schedule work projects, social engagements, and family obligations accordingly. Don’t put pressure on yourself by committing to something important right up against the end of your expected recovery period. Rushing rehabilitation is one of the primary reasons for re-injury.
Find out what your recovery needs will be. The foot doctor may prescribe accommodative devices such as scooters or crutches. Rearranging your space at home to allow for the use of these may be necessary. Ask how long it will be before you can bear weight on the affected foot and whether or not physical therapy or other post-operative services will be needed.
Get help. Accept any and all offers of help from friends and family! From meals to help with children, housework, and errands, you’ll be glad that you said yes when your recovery is here.
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