Recovery Tips for Common Foot Surgeries: Bunions, Hammertoes, and Neuromas

If you have to undergo surgery on your foot, you may feel stressed about the recovery. However, recovering from common foot surgeries, like those for hammertoes, bunions, or neuromas, might be simpler than you think. That’s especially the case when you have the procedure with one of the podiatric surgeons, Dr. My Hoa Kaas and Dr. Jay Ryan, at Virginia Foot and Ankle Center, serving Fairfax, VA, and the surrounding region.

Take it Easy the First Few Days

 You may return from surgery from a Fairfax, VA, podiatrist with crutches or a boot to take the pressure off your tender foot after common foot surgeries. 

These foot surgeries don’t require extensive time off your feet, but we’ll advise you to take it easy on your foot for a few days. You’ll usually want to put little weight on the foot in the first 24 hours. You’ll gradually build up from there. However, this will depend on your particular surgery and the outcome. Not all foot surgeries have the same results.

It helps to have someone at home for the first few days to assist you so you can take it easy.

Take OTC Meds as Advised 

 Typically, you won’t be in a lot of pain after your surgery, though you will have some. In general, you can usually combat the pain with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

Please use them only as recommended, seeing as how they can cause organ damage or other serious consequences when not taken properly. 

Use an Ice Pack for Swelling

 Some swelling is expected, as it’s your body’s natural response to trauma. Use an ice pack on the area to ease the swelling, which can reduce your pain.

Besides the ice, elevating your foot may also help.

Take Off Enough Time from Work 

 We recommend our patients take off work for four to six weeks after the surgery if they have a job that requires them to be on their feet a great deal. With that said, if you have a desk job, you may be able to return sooner.

Prepare Your Home in Advance

 Since standing on your feet and reaching may be a struggle, you’ll want to prepare your home. That means taking out the items you use frequently, such as a spice or your coffee cup, and leaving them on the table. 

Book a Podiatric Surgeon Now

 Dr. Kaas and Dr. Ryan are skilled podiatric surgeons at Virginia Foot and Ankle Center, serving Fairfax, VA, and the neighboring communities. Do you know about the necessary precautions when you’re home? Call us at (703) 205-0770 today if you have any questions about our foot surgeries.