When Can I Bear Weight After Foot Surgery?
Whether you are a diabetic or not, you should ask your doctor about early weight-bearing after foot surgery. Early weight-bearing after foot surgery is very beneficial and can speed up the healing process. Ideally, you will be able to put up to 50% of your weight on the foot that underwent surgery. To do so, keep your heel elevated off the floor. Once you are ready to bear weight, you can begin your exercise regimen.
Early weight-bearing
The benefits of early weight-bearing after foot surgery are often underestimated. While it is possible to improve postoperative outcome, early weight-bearing may also compromise osseous bridging. However, some studies compare early weight-bearing with late weight-bearing. The authors of this study discuss the potential benefits and risks of early weight-bearing in foot surgery. After all, early weight-bearing allows patients to return to normal activity sooner.
Indications
Indications for bearing weight after foot surgery vary. Depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual healing time, patients may be able to bear some weight immediately after surgery. Patients are generally advised to wear appropriate footwear and to limit physical activity during the recovery period. If the foot is not completely healed, patients are often instructed to elevate it above the heart while resting it. In addition, walking may increase swelling and discomfort.
Guidelines
There are several guidelines for bearing weight after foot surgery. Taking it easy for the first several weeks is vital. The initial four weeks will be spent in a nonweight-bearing boot. You will be required to use an assistive device to get around, such as crutches or a knee walker. Once you are up to 8 weeks post-surgery, you may resume all normal activities. While it may take six months to a year to fully recover, you will be on your feet much sooner than you thought.
Common complications
Foot and ankle surgery is associated with a number of potential complications. While virtually no surgical procedure is risk-free, foot and ankle surgery is no exception. After all, removing a bone, which leaves a foot less functional than it was before surgery, can result in persistent pain, swelling, and infection. Other common complications include ingrown toenail, contact allergy, primary irritant sensitivity, and regrowth or spiculization of the toenail.
Recovery milestones
There are several important milestones to reach after foot surgery. For some patients, these milestones include driving again, going back to work, and wearing normal shoes. Others want to know when they can resume their regular activities, such as exercise and sports. In general, you will be able to return to most activities after six months to a year. But there may be some setbacks along the way, so here are some important reminders to follow.
