Foot surgery is one of the main reasons why patients seek out Dr. Silverman for care, which is why we thought it would be beneficial to start a series that dives into a number of important aspects of the foot surgery process. We want you to be well-informed before you move forward with surgery and after the operation is complete, and we think this series can be an incredible resource for doing just that. We continue the series by looking at some of the ways you can improve your odds of a successful foot and ankle surgery.
Improving Your Likelihood Of Surgery Success
Believe it or not, you actually play a significant role in the success of your surgical operation. Your surgeon may provide the technical skill to complete the operation, but your commitment to your pre- and post-op care will go a long way in determining your functional recovery. Here’s a look at some of the things you can do to improve your odds of a successful foot and ankle surgery.
Prehab – You don’t have to wait until surgery is complete to start rehabbing your foot or ankle. While you’re waiting for surgery, do some gentle strength training exercises or a physical therapy routine. The stronger your foot is prior to surgery, the stronger it will be after your operation. Doing some exercises beforehand also helps you get used to performing strength training exercises regularly, which you’ll likely be doing after your operation.
Work On Your Weight – We understand that it may not be easy to try and lose some weight ahead of surgery, especially if your foot or ankle surgery makes movement difficult, but it’s really important that you work towards a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese increases your likelihood of a problem during surgery, and even though your doctor will do everything in their power to control these risks, surgery doesn’t go perfectly every single time. Strive to improve your odds of a successful surgery by working towards a healthy weight.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice – This is a rather simple tip that many people oftentimes overlook. Your surgeon will give you some pre-op and post-op advice, and it’s imperative that you follow their instructions. They may tell you how to adjust your diet or your medication schedule prior to or after your procedure, or they may explain how to get the most out of your physical therapy program after surgery. Pay attention to what they are saying and heed their advice to keep your surgery and recovery on track.
Mind Your Restrictions – Similarly, keep your restrictions in mind during your recovery period. One of the most common reasons for a failed surgery or a setback during recovery is because the patient steps outside their restrictions. Don’t head back to work or start driving on your surgically-repaired foot until you have been given clearance by your physician. Your restrictions have been put in place for a reason, so respect them. If you have questions or believe your restrictions are outdated, have a conversation with your surgeon.
Take PT Seriously – Physical therapy will likely be the single most important aspect of your post-op recovery plan in terms of helping you restore as much physical function as possible. Don’t skip your exercises or simply go through the motions. Really push yourself to become stronger and more flexible so that your foot can handle the stress you’ll throw at it once you’re fully recovered. If you don’t take PT seriously, you may never make a full recovery.
Improve Your Diet – Finally, if you work to improve your diet before and after surgery, you’ll be helping your body get nutrients it needs that aid in the recovery process. Eat a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, fatty fish and whole grains, and your body will have access to nutrients that can help with tissue repair and inflammation control. A healthy diet can also help you manage your weight before and after surgery.
Circle back to our blog to keep tabs on our surgery series, and check out our first installment on what you should know before your surgical procedure.