There are many questions about hammertoe surgery. People just aren’t sure whether they’re taking the right medications and doing all the right steps in order to get better as soon as possible. However, one of the most asked questions is: Can you walk after hammertoe surgery? Learn more about this in the following text and what to do to speed up the recovery process.
How Long Is the Recovery Process After the Hammertoe Surgery?
The fact that this minimally invasive surgery harms the foot considerably less than conventional operations is one of its main advantages. As a result, the healing period following hammertoe surgery lasts about 3 to 4 weeks.
You will need to maintain your foot elevated for at least a few days during this period. But, right after the medical treatment, you will leave the office wearing a walking boot. The majority of patients can wear closed shoes again after about ten days.
There may likely be some swelling and irritation. When you can, get moving, but also take breaks when necessary. Your toe may still be slightly bent after the hammertoe surgery recovery period, but as long as your foot pain has disappeared, the procedure was successful!
Can You Walk After Hammertoe Surgery on the Same Day?
It’s not recommended to walk right after the operation, especially not on the same day. Instead, your foot should be elevated as much as possible, and getting ice on it surely will help the recovery period. Of course, if this is recommended by your doctor, keep your foot dry and rest completely for the first three to five days after the operation. After that, you can check with the doctor about the best shoes to wear after hammertoe surgery.
After the first recovery period, you can use a cane, knee scooter, walker, or crutches. However, depending on the specifics of your hammertoe operation, your doctor might let you walk on it right away while wearing a boot or surgical shoe.
How Can You Speed Up Your Recovery?
The postoperative period indeed, for most people, is the worst. Your toe could be swollen, stiff, and red which may cause some patients to be overwhelmed. These signs might continue anywhere from weeks to months, depending on the kind of surgery you underwent for your hammer toe. But don’t despair because they will gradually improve with time.
You’ll be given a special shoe particularly made for this kind of surgery because it will protect your tie and keep it in an adequate position for about a month. During that time, besides wearing the special shoe, you need to rest and not do anything that would harm the wound. Only then you’ll be able to heal completely and proceed with your everyday activities. And here’s what you should do to prevent hammertoe in the future:
- Get adequate shoes with arch support – professionals from Luxe Foot Surgery advise using appropriate shoes that have deeper and large toe boxes. Sufficient arch support can also help stop the condition of your toes from getting worse.
- Use pumice stone – When you wear shoes, the corn or callus that could develop on the hammertoe may be uncomfortable. After a warm bath, you should treat the corn with a pumice stone. Then, apply emollients to maintain the area’s softness and flexibility.
- Do some foot exercises – in order to keep your toes flexible and strong, do some exercise. That way, you’ll curl and extend your toes and prevent the possible hammertoe.
Wound Care
Approximately two weeks after the procedure, your doctor will remove any stitches or sutures. Three to six weeks following surgery, your doctor will remove any temporary pins or other devices they used to keep your toe straight while it healed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, you may shower. Dry off the bandage. You can clean the area with ordinary warm water after the bandage has been taken off. Dry it with a pat.
For any medications prescribed to you following surgery, always abide by your doctor’s instructions. After surgery, you should anticipate some pain and edema. Do not hesitate to contact the doctor’s office if you feel excessive pain.
Activities
With the proper care, your recovery will be shorter, and you’ll be back to your normal lifestyle in no time. Here’s what you should do in the recovery period:
- Take a nap when you feel exhausted. You’ll recover easier with enough hours of sleep.
- Walk every day if the doctor recommends it. Start with taking a few extra steps today than you did yesterday and repeat the activity every day.
- Avoid driving after hammertoe surgery. It’s always best to ask your doctor when you can start driving your four-wheeler before engaging in the activity.
Get All the Information From Your Surgeon Before the Operation
We all know how our health can be delicate, nowadays more than ever. And having the professionals you can completely trust by your side is surely something to aim for. Luckily, we at Luxe Foot Surgery are here for you, and we’ll solve any issue you have with your feet. Contact us from Monday to Thursday from 9 AM to 6 PM and on Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM if you want the best care out there.
FAQ
How Long Should You Stay Off Your Feet After Hammertoe Surgery?
Shortly after surgery, you can put weight on your heel as tolerated. For four weeks following surgery, you shouldn’t place any weight on your toes. Whenever your pin is removed, you can start walking normally and change into a standard shoe once you feel comfortable.
How Long Do You Wear a Boot After Hammertoe Surgery?
For three to six weeks after the operation, you have to wear a particular kind of shoe to preserve your toe and keep it in the proper place. This may continue anywhere from weeks to months, depending on the kind of surgery you underwent for your hammer toe, but it will gradually improve with time.
Will I Need Crutches After Hammertoe Surgery?
Crutches can be used until the pain subsides. Make sure your heel is bearing the weight and not your toes. In the following period, your doctor might suggest a deep and soft shoe for up to six weeks until your toe is completely healed.
