Is Foot Surgery a Major Surgery?
Is foot surgery a major operation? Probably. Among the most common foot surgeries are Achilles tendon repair, reconstruction of the tibialis posterior tendon, and Morton’s neuroma. But are there side effects to expect? And what is the recovery period like? The following article will shed light on these common procedures and their recovery process. You should know what to expect before having foot surgery.
Achilles tendon repair
The first step in the Achilles tendon repair after foot surgery is an incision along the back of the ankle. Depending on the surgical procedure, the incision can be several inches long or as small as an inch. The surgeon will then use special instruments to bridge the torn pieces of the tendon. The surgeon will stitch together the pieces of the torn tendon. The patient will have several weeks to rest and wear a cast.
After the surgical procedure, the foot will be put into a cast or splint to reduce swelling and prevent further injury. If the Achilles tendon rupture was caused by a traumatic event, it will need to be rested for an extended period of time. Once the foot has recovered from surgery, the patient will change into a surgical gown and sign consent forms. Afterward, the patient will go into the recovery area.
Reconstruction of the tibialis posterior tendon
The reconstruction of the tibialis posterior tendón is a major surgery that changes the shape of the foot. The surgery can correct deformity or prevent long-term foot problems. The amount of damage will determine the type of surgery. The surgeon will make a cut on the inside of the ankle, then replace the damaged tendon with the flexor digitorum longus tendon. The flexor digitorum longus tendon is located near the tibialis posterior at the ankle. This tendon is a good substitute for the tibialis posterior tendon, but it will not be as strong as the original tibial tendon.
Tibialis posterior dysfunction is a painful and debilitating condition. It results from a diseased tibia, where the tendon slides over the bone and flattens the foot. It is also associated with arthritis in the joints of the foot below the ankle. Surgical reconstruction of the tibialis posterior tendon in foot surgery can correct this condition.
Treatment of Morton’s neuroma
While the first step in treating Morton’s neuroma is a conservative approach, a neuroma can sometimes be surgically removed. In a neurectomy, the affected nerve is surgically removed from the foot. This procedure may leave permanent numbness in the toes. Treatment options for Morton’s neuroma include alcohol sclerosing injections or radiofrequency ablation.
After the procedure, patients are typically required to wear a post-operative boot or sandal to protect the foot. The recovery time varies from patient to patient, but the general rule is that patients will need two weeks of rest. While the recovery time is short, they should avoid strenuous activities until their doctor instructs them otherwise. Some patients experience swelling up to a month following the procedure. Several people experience pain in the foot after the procedure.
Recovery from foot surgery
Recovery from foot surgery is important for the safety of the patient. Patients should avoid putting too much pressure on the foot as the wound may bleed. Physical therapy is also crucial to speed recovery. After the surgery, patients are often asked to do stretches at home. Physical therapy appointments are necessary to monitor the foot’s healing. A patient’s medical team should be contacted if there are any warning signs. A patient with an infection or a poor healing will need to be evaluated immediately.
If you are going to have foot surgery, you should prepare your home for the downtime following the surgery. For several days, you will not be able to bear weight on the foot that has been operated upon. To ensure your comfort, create a comfortable and well-supplied space where you can rest and relax. The foot may be sore, so consider getting extra pillows. After the surgery, your foot may be sore, so it is important to elevate the leg up off the floor, preferably at least six inches above your heart.
