Foot surgery impacts your daily life, both before and after the procedure. Thorough preparation helps patients approach their surgery feeling informed and supported. From working closely with your medical care team to getting your home ready for safe recovery, each step plays a key role in your overall experience. By reviewing what to expect before, during, and after your surgery, you can better plan for a smoother healing process.
Scheduling Prep
Once your surgery date is scheduled, arrange any pre-surgery appointments and discuss the process in detail with your care team. Planning ahead and being informed helps remove uncertainty from your foot surgery experience. Your care team will guide you through each step. They are a resource for support and can address your concerns. Asking questions helps you feel more equipped for what to expect. Some helpful questions to ask may include:
- What do you need to do the day before the procedure?
- What can you expect on the day of surgery and the days that follow?
- What are the options for pain control?
- What is recovery like, and how long is the recovery period?
- Will you need any mobility aids?
- How long will it be before you can walk and wear regular shoes?
At-Home Prep
Having a supportive home environment is fundamental for recovery, as this period significantly influences your overall results. Since mobility may be limited following surgery, making your living space accessible helps you stay self-sufficient. Contemplate making adjustments around you, like clearing pathways and removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars or handrails in bathrooms and near stairs, and setting up a temporary bedroom on the main floor if possible.
Aside from physical changes, it can also be helpful to stock up on necessary items prior to surgery. This may include things like comfortable and loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on and take off. Stocking up on toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, or shampoo, and non-perishable food items can help you focus on your recovery more easily. Stock up on simple, nutritious meals, and keep contacts for family or friends nearby should you need assistance.
Make Your Space Accessible
Start by identifying areas in your home that could present barriers. Rearranging furniture and clearing walkways is often key to making movement easier. Place frequently used items within arm’s reach to limit trips across the house. Some patients find it helpful to set up a recovery station with water, medications, snacks, books, and electronics nearby. Medicines prescribed by your doctor and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage your pain, so keep them close, too.
Mobility aids, such as crutches, walkers, or knee scooters, may be recommended by your care team. Contemplate borrowing or renting these items ahead of time to test how they fit in your space. Bathing can also be challenging while recovering. Using a shower chair or a non-slip mat may make washing safer.
Work and Travel Prep
Surgery and recovery will likely affect your work and commitments outside the home. Planning around work and life events helps you balance rest and daily responsibilities more comfortably. Some preparation tips that may benefit you are:
- If you work from home, create an organized and comfortable space where you can continue working while recovering.
- If possible, schedule any meetings or deadlines before your surgery to avoid added stress during recovery.
- Make arrangements for childcare or pet care if needed, as your ability to take care of others may be limited during recovery.
- If you have travel plans, discuss with your doctor whether it is safe for you to go ahead with them. You may need to postpone or make accommodations for your recovery while traveling.
Planning Ahead
Inform your employer or colleagues about your upcoming surgery as soon as possible. This allows them to plan around your absence and potentially arrange for coverage. Discuss remote work options or required paperwork with your supervisor or HR representative. Arrange support for any responsibilities you won’t be able to do, such as commuting or lifting items.
Travel arrangements may also need adjustment. Post-surgical restrictions could prevent you from driving for a period. If you anticipate travel, delay or reschedule trips when possible. Organizing transportation to follow-up appointments in advance is also key. Coordinate with loved ones in your community who can assist when necessary. Having a network gives you both logistical and emotional support while you heal.
Learn More Foot Surgery Preparation Methods
Preparing for foot surgery is a multi-step process. From getting clarity with your care team to adapting your home and daily schedule, each step is fundamental to a more manageable experience. If you’re planning for foot surgery, access additional resources from our team or schedule a consultation to discuss your preparation and recovery needs.