Are you scheduled for foot or ankle surgery? The thought of undergoing surgery can be scary, but sometimes, it’s the best option to treat painful foot concerns from Achilles tendon injuries to bunions.
While surgery eventually helps you get back to your favorite activities with less pain, recovery from foot and ankle surgery takes time, and your mobility will be limited. Everyone heals at their own pace. To support your post-surgical healing, there are things you can do ahead of time to get your house ready for your recovery.
The Premier Foot and Ankle Center team, with offices in Worcester and Webster, Massachusettes, specializes in foot surgery and is here to answer all your questions about recovery.
When you’re scheduled for surgery, we give you specific instructions for healing based on the type of foot surgery you need, but we recommend some things for everyone.
Preparing in advance can make recovery more accessible, and here are nine ways to prepare yourself and your home.
Many people have bedrooms on their second floor (or higher), but going up and down stairs after foot surgery can be difficult and dangerous. If you need to climb stairs to get to your bedroom, consider setting up a bed on a lower level.
A temporary bedroom helps minimize the stairs you need to navigate and makes getting a good night’s rest easier.
Set up an area where you can sit comfortably during the day with your foot elevated if needed. Keep essentials like your phone, computer, TV, snacks, extra pillows, and medication — nearby so you don’t have to get up often.
You may need extra help if you get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom or grab something from another room in the dark. Night lights, particularly in the room you are sleeping in, bathroom areas, and adjacent hallways, help prevent a crash.
Arrange things like your toothbrush, soap, and mouthwash in a place that’s easy to reach, so you don’t have to go for high shelves (or low ones) while you’re compromised during recovery.
Also, gather all the supplies you need to protect your foot during bathing or showering and prepare them before surgery.
You’ll need to cover the leg that’s had surgery with a plastic bag to keep it dry. Keep several plastic bags on hand and tape (masking or dressing tape) so you’re ready to shower or bathe whenever you need.
Depending on the surgery and your capabilities, you may also want to obtain a shower bench or chair from a local surgical supply store to help you further.
These days, workplaces are more flexible than ever, so you may be able to keep working while you’re at home recovering from foot surgery. If you already have a home office, ensure it’s on a lower level and easy to access. If you don’t usually work from home, create a space with room to work comfortably.
If you can’t work from home, make arrangements with your employer. You may be unable to drive for some time after foot surgery, so decide if you need to take time off or find someone to drive you to and from work.
You should limit your activity level as you recuperate from foot surgery, but you’ll still have to get up occasionally. Clear your hallways andthe pathways you use most often to minimize your chances of tripping. Pick up cords, and consider removing rugs to make the floor smoother.
Be sure you have enough groceries at home e before your foot surgery. You may not feel like standing for long periods to cook, but eating nutritious food is essential while you recover. Consider prepping and freezing meals ahead of time or purchase premade, microwavable meals.
You probably won’t be able to bear weight on your foot right after surgery. Mobility aids, like crutches, a cane or walker, or a knee scooter, can help you get around the house while you heal.
Talk to your doctor about which mobility aids might be most helpful. Get them before surgery and test them out so you know they fit your body correctly and help you get around more easily.
With mobility aids, consider where you might need to sit and rest during your day and have a footstool nearby. Putting a shower stool in your bathroom can make showering more accessible and safer when you can’t stand comfortably on both feet.
Recovering from foot surgery takes time; you don’t have to do it alone. Ask family members or friends to help, whether preparing meals, driving you somewhere, caring for your pets, or tackling other chores. If no one is available, consider looking into short-term in-home caregiving.
There’s a lot to consider when preparing for foot surgery, but the Premier Foot and Ankle Center team is here to help you every step. For all your foot care needs, schedule a consultation with our experts today.
