Post-Operative Guide: Caring for Your Foot After Rearfoot Surgery

At Restore Foot and Ankle Specialists, we want your recovery from rearfoot surgery to be as smooth and successful as possible. Surgery is just the first step—what you do at home in the days and weeks after surgery plays a huge role in healing. Below is a detailed guide on what to expect and how to care for your foot following rearfoot surgery.

1. Post-Operative Splint and Elevation

Immediately after surgery, your foot may be placed in a splint. Do not put weight on your operated leg. Instead, use crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter.

• Elevation is key: Keep your foot elevated at or above heart level whenever resting.

• For the first 5–7 days, avoid letting your foot hang down for long periods, as this increases swelling and discomfort.

2. Dressings and Incision Care

Your foot will be covered in a bulky dressing after surgery.

• It’s normal to see a small amount of spotting on the outer dressing. If it becomes saturated, call our office.

• Do not remove or change your dressing unless you are instructed to.

• Sutures are often non-absorbable and will be removed in about 10–14 days, depending on your healing.

3. Pain, Swelling, and Ice

Managing swelling is an important part of recovery.

• For the first few days, use ice packs on your foot for 30 minutes every 1–2 hours while dressings are in place. The thick layers of gauze protect your skin from frostbite.

• After your first dressing change, limit ice applications to 2 minutes at a time, every 2 hours, focusing around the big toe region as needed.

• Always keep your foot elevated when possible.

4. Bathing

It’s very important to keep your dressing dry.

• You may sponge bathe or keep your leg hanging out of the tub.

• Cast covers are available for purchase and can help protect your dressing while bathing.

• If your dressing gets slightly damp, allow it to air-dry.

5. Nutrition and Healing

What you eat after surgery makes a big difference in how well your body heals.

Avoid: caffeine, alcohol, excessive sugar, and salt, as they can slow bone healing.

Include plenty of:

• Protein – dairy, eggs, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, and soy. Protein helps rebuild bone, muscle, and supports your immune system.

• Vitamin C – found in citrus, berries, and vegetables; helps form collagen for ligaments and tendons.

• Calcium – found in dairy, leafy greens, and seeds like chia; supports strong bones.

• Vitamin D – found in fortified juices, almond milk, and dairy; helps your body absorb calcium.

Your doctor may also recommend a wound healing supplement during the immediate recovery period.

6. Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation is important, but timing matters.

• Physical therapy usually begins 6–8 weeks after surgery.

• At that point, you may be given home exercises or formal therapy sessions, depending on your needs.

• Your surgeon will guide your exercises and activity limitations at follow-up visits.

7. Follow-Up Visits

Be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment approximately 7 days after surgery. These visits allow us to check your incision, monitor healing, and make adjustments to your care plan.

8. Medications

• You will receive a prescription for pain medication before or right after surgery. Fill it in advance to avoid delays.

• Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen, Advil, or Aleve) unless your doctor advises otherwise, as they may interfere with bone or tendon healing.

• In some cases, you may be prescribed a blood thinner (anti-coagulant) to reduce the risk of blood clots. These are often given as injections—ask your pharmacist for instructions.

• If you’ve had nausea after past surgeries, medications like Phenergan or Zofran may be prescribed. Take these before your pain pills for best results.

Final Thoughts

Recovering from rearfoot surgery takes time, patience, and consistent care. Remember:

• Keep your foot elevated.

• Protect your incision and dressing.

• Follow your nutrition and medication plan.

• Attend all follow-up visits.

By carefully following these guidelines, you give your foot the best chance at a safe, successful recovery. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your post-operative care, contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.