Stepping into Surgery: A Patient's Guide to Foot & Ankle Surgery Success
Foot and ankle surgery can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and a collaborative approach with your podiatrist, the process can be a lot smoother than you might imagine.
The team at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center has plenty of surgical expertise, so we know how crucial it is for patients to be properly informed. This blog will break down the basics, from pre-op to post-op care and beyond.
Evaluation: Ask the Right Questions
During your initial consultation, come prepared with a list of questions for your podiatrist.
Ask about the specific condition requiring surgery, its severity, and alternative treatments considered.
Inquire about the type of surgery planned, the expected recovery time, and potential risks or complications.
Seek detailed information about post-surgical instructions and post-operative care, including physical therapy or pain management strategies.
Pre-Operative Prep
Once the surgery is scheduled, follow pre-operative instructions diligently.
Ensure any required blood tests and medical evaluations are completed beforehand.
Discuss any medications you take with your podiatrist, as some might need to be adjusted pre-operatively.
Depending on the surgical procedure, you might need to adjust your diet, stop smoking, or manage pre-existing health conditions.
Procedure Day
The day of surgery can be nerve-wracking, but preparation makes all the difference.
Following specific fasting instructions provided by your podiatrist.
Wear loose-fitting clothing that provides easy access to the surgical site.
Arranging pre-operative transportation and post-surgical support to ensure a safe journey home.
Post-Operative Care
Recovery is an active process. Support your healing via:
Follow your podiatrist's pain management plan, taking medication as prescribed.
Attend physical therapy sessions regularly to regain strength, flexibility, and proper gait.
Meticulously follow post-surgical wound care instructions to prevent infection.
Foot and ankle surgery isn’t always necessary, but when it is, we hope you’ll trust us to deliver the optimal outcome! We’re here to help, so if you’re in need, get in touch to learn more!
At Podiatry Care, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are dedicated to helping Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041, and for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.