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.

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