How Long Does Pain After Foot Surgery Last?
Although foot surgery can improve your mobility and relieve some of the symptoms, it’s important to understand that postoperative pain is common and may not be as ideal as you would hope. The length of recovery after foot surgery varies depending on the type of surgery performed and the factors that caused it. It is normal to worry about postoperative pain, but you shouldn’t let it interfere with your long-term recovery plan. To minimize postoperative pain, you should use ice or pain medication as directed by your doctor.
Anesthesia duration
After foot surgery, the patient should take ice every hour for a couple of days to minimize swelling and reduce pain. The use of ice is effective for the first couple of days, but should be discontinued after a few days. An antibiotic and pain medication are prescribed to control any lingering discomfort. A foot cast may be required for a week or more. Patients should avoid strenuous activity for several days after surgery.
Post-operative pain intensity
Patients with ankle and foot surgery are more likely to experience persistent pain than patients with nonpersistent pain. Pain during physiotherapy after surgery can be decreased or eliminated completely with peripheral nerve blockade. Patients should be aware of the risk factors for persistent pain and receive appropriate pain management to reduce the likelihood of experiencing a high pain score. Post-operative pain intensity following foot surgery is influenced by a number of factors.
Ice application
Patients should apply ice on the surgical area for at least two days after the procedure. An ideal time to apply the ice is 15 minutes on and 30 minutes off. If you don’t have access to medical equipment, you can use a clean garbage bag filled with ice. Remember to avoid applying ice directly to the skin because it can cause frostbite and cold injury. If you are unsure of how to apply the ice, ask your surgeon for more detailed instructions.
Pain medication
How long does pain medication last after foot surgery? It is important to understand that postoperative pain can last anywhere from several days to a month. Your doctor may prescribe acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the pain that may occur. You may also be prescribed warm or cold compresses to alleviate discomfort. Your doctor will discuss the best course of treatment for you, depending on the type of surgery you’ve had.
Return to work
There are a few guidelines for returning to work after foot surgery. It is generally possible to work in a desk job during the time you are off. A desk job will allow you to elevate the foot. However, active jobs may require you to wait until your foot heals completely before you can return to your usual routine. If you are in doubt about your eligibility for a desk job, you should seek medical advice before deciding to take one.
