8 Foot Surgery Recovery Tips
It's day 5 of my foot surgery recovery! I'm not allowed to put any weight on my left foot this week, so mostly I've watched TV as the transitions between the couch and toilet were strenuous enough whilst I was getting over the effects of general anaesthetic earlier in the week!
Always follow your Drs instructions to the letter! But here are a few of my personal tips that along with Drs orders might help.
8 tips for foot surgery recovery:
- Meal prep a few days food in the days immediately prior to surgery. Easy foods that can be eaten on the sofa or in bed are best.
- In the months/weeks before surgery strengthen your other leg the one that won't be operated on as it will need to take all your weight during transitions initially!
- The right crutches are important! I've found underarm crutches most helpful in week one. Elbow crutches are the more popular option these days (I own both types) but it's easier for me during this phase to use my underarm crutches as I can lean all of my weight into the crutches. Types of crutches: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Crutches#:~:text=There%20are%20three%20types%20of,flexed%20between%2020%2D30%20degrees.
- Anaesthetic and surgery generally are tough on the body, the first few days rest is vital. Day naps as needed and read or watch TV to pass the waking time.
- Minimise transitions. Choose the spot you are comfortable spending most of your time; armchair, bed, sofa??? Keep in mind the surgical leg might need to be elevated - per your Drs orders. Whilst getting used to the crutches and during week one, minimise moving around; eat meals in your spot and only move to go to the toilet, go to bed or have a shower. You can even do seated exercise like chair yoga.
- Having access to a wheelchair is useful during this first week or two especially when you aren't allowed to put ANY weight on the foot that was operated on! If you get sick of being cooped up you can go for a roll to a park or around your neighbourhood to get some fresh air and sunshine. (FYI wheelchairs can be rented)
- Medications will likely be prescribed for pain management and inflammation and possibly blood thinners. Keep in mind all drugs have side effects, be aware of what they are and give your body more grace if you are feeling tired. It's a lot for one body to handle.
- Use a stool or chair in the shower. You might be able to rent a shower chair but a sturdy outdoor chair/stool could work to. Just make sure it grips the tiles well and doesn't slide around! I'm using a metal outdoor stool that we had which has great rubber feet, it's super sturdy and can handle the wet environment.
Today (day 5 post surgery) I felt a little bored so hubby and I went for a stroll and roll, I self propelled the wheelchair but he helped with a few steep ramps. We just went to a local park.
I couldn't have done this without the wheelchair! So it's a great mobility aid to have at your disposal whilst recovering.
Never underestimate the power of fresh air and sunshine for your physical and mental health.
