How to Prepare for Your Surgery

Careful preparation before any kind of foot or ankle surgery is crucial to a comfortable recovery. The healing process often requires a cast or brace, so we recommend planning ahead whenever possible.

Remember that your day-to-day life will be affected during the recovery time.

We’ve put together a list of questions you should ask your surgeon prior to the operation, and things to consider before your cast goes on.

What questions should you ask your surgeon?

• What can you expect on the day of your surgery and the days immediately following?
• What do you need to do the day before surgery?
• What will the recovery period be like?
• Will you need crutches, a knee scooter or a cane?
• What about pain control?
• How long will it take before you can walk and wear a regular shoe?
• When can you start driving again?
  

How can you prepare your home for a comfortable recovery?

You need to do is prepare your home to suit your special needs during the post-op weeks. If your bedroom is upstairs, consider setting up a temporary bedroom on the ground floor because negotiating stairs will be difficult for a while.
Here is how you can set up a personal environment that will work well for you during your recovery period:

• First, create a home base. Have things that you will need handy, such as a work table or TV tray, phone, computer, clock, television, books, snacks and medications.
• Second, put a shower stool in the bathroom.
• Third, make sure a clear path is available so you can easily move from room to room.

What things should you consider before surgery?

• Driving — If your right foot is being operated on, find out how long it will take before you can resume driving and whether you will need to get a temporary handicapped parking placard. You may need to enlist the help of others to provide transportation for you, so make those arrangements ahead of time.
• Handling Your Work — Your surgeon will let you know when you can go back to work. Many people can work from home for a while, but if you need to be at work and cannot yet drive, see if a coworker can drive you. You should also consider how your pain medication may effect your ability to safely work depending on your occupation. Ask your surgeon for recommendations.