Why Do You Have to Wear a Boot After Foot Surgery?
If you have recently undergone foot surgery, you may be wondering why you have to wear a boot for the rest of your life. If you are wondering, you can read about postoperative issues such as impaired neuromuscular control, Non-weight-bearing, and the side effects of wearing a walking boot. Listed below are the advantages and disadvantages of wearing a boot after foot surgery.
Non-weightbearing
Following non-weightbearing boot after foot surgery is critical for a speedy recovery. Non-weightbearing boot allows tissues to heal by keeping the foot elevated, and it can also reduce the swelling that can delay healing. The orthopedist can suggest various methods of non-weightbearing for you, depending on your particular needs. Here are some of them. Follow your orthopedist’s instructions closely.
Patients who have undergone foot or leg surgery may feel confident enough to bear weight, but it is best to stick to your doctor’s instructions and wait until the non-weight-bearing period is complete before attempting to walk or run. Non-compliance can result in secondary images of the surgery and extend the time you must spend non-weight-bearing. Non-compliance will result in additional complications and unnecessary discomfort.
Impaired neuromuscular control
Neuromuscular control is a condition that results from the coordinated action of multiple muscles to stabilize a joint. This condition has been associated with a number of side effects, including decreased mobility, increased pain, and difficulty in forming a stable posture. Impaired neuromuscular control is a potential consequence of foot surgery. Patients who have undergone this procedure need rehabilitation exercises to regain motor control and kinesthetic awareness.
In a recent study, researchers assessed serial changes in neuromuscular control in patients with nonathletic ACL reconstruction. These patients underwent a battery of neuromuscular control tests before, six months, and one year after surgery. They assessed neuromuscular control using a dynamic postural stability test, an acceleration time test, and an overall stability index. They also performed the Tegner activity level scale.
Improved postoperative symptoms
Improving postoperative symptoms after foot surgery can help you recover faster and avoid the need for another surgical procedure. After the procedure, ice should be applied to the foot for at least 24 hours. You can use a large plastic bag of ice to do this. Remember not to apply the ice while you are asleep. Make sure the ice does not get wet or drip; place a towel between your foot and the ice.
Swelling is part of the healing process following any surgical procedure, including foot surgery. It may be more significant than swelling in other areas of the body. The severity of the swelling depends on factors such as your activity level and dependency on your foot. Additionally, if you have any preexisting medical conditions that may exacerbate the swelling, it may take a full year to go away. Your foot may also be slightly painful and swollen after surgery, but you can expect this to go away over time.
Side effects of wearing a walking boot
There are numerous reported side effects of wearing a walking boot after foot surgeries, but these may be mild to moderate and are not severe enough to cause significant inconvenience. A recent study looked at 46 patients and found that 33% developed new or worsening pain after transitioning out of the boot. Pain tended to occur at the ipsilateral knee, contralateral hip, and lower back. Most pains began within the first 2 weeks of wear.
Patients who wear a walking boot may also experience decreased neuromuscular control. This may cause them to struggle to find the correct foot pedal in an emergency. During this period, patients should limit their walking and rest as much as possible. Compression socks may help with swelling in the foot. They can be purchased online or at sporting goods stores. Keeping crutches near the bed can help prevent a patient from putting too much pressure on their foot.
