Summer is upon us, but if you’re about to have foot surgery, you might be feeling disappointed that you won’t be able to participate in your favorite summer activities. However, every cloud has a silver lining, right? In this case, it’s the fact that you now have the perfect excuse to kick back, relax, and have people wait on you! Just picture it: lounging on the chaise with your foot propped up on a pillow, cool beverage in hand, breeze in your hair, without a care in the world other than making sure you rest easy. When you look at it that way, it doesn’t seem so bad, now does it?
Besides a positive attitude, here are some other ways to ensure a speedy and successful recovery after foot surgery:
Follow the at-home instructions carefully. That includes keeping weight off your foot, making sure dressings are changed, getting to your follow up appointments, taking your medication, etc.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Having a friend or family member assist you will make life a lot easier and allow you to focus on recovering.
Before the surgery, set up a “well station”—preferably on your main floor—so you do not have to deal with stairs. Make sure you have a cozy chair and ottoman, pillows to prop your foot up, and things like books, the TV remote, phone, crossword puzzles, snacks—whatever you think you’ll need or want close at hand.
It’s also a good idea, pre-surgery, to make meals and freeze them ahead of time for ease while you recover.
Once you get the go ahead, gradually return to activity—don’t just dive right back in full force. Physical therapy will likely be needed to restore strength and function. Be sure to consistently do those exercises!
Follow these guidelines and you should have a smooth and uneventful recovery from foot surgery, and one very relaxing summer!
For more information, if you have any questions, or if you’d like to discuss a procedure, contact Martin Foot & Ankle today by dialing (717) 757-3537.
