The condition known as hammertoe is not that uncommon. While it may present a cosmetic issue, some people choose to undergo surgery in order to alleviate some of the pain. But one of the frequent questions is about driving after hammertoe surgery. How fast can a patient begin to drive their vehicle, and how does the recovery process work? All of these and some additional questions will be answered in this article.
What Is the Recovery Time for Hammertoe Surgery?
All activity will be restricted in the following period after the surgical procedure. You should also expect that your toe and ball of the foot will feel some discomfort, so you should be prepared for some hammertoe surgery pain after. It will take at least several weeks to practice slow walking. Until some 6 to 12 weeks have passed, every impact-style activity like walking or jogging will typically cause discomfort. It’s also completely normal to notice swelling in the toes, which will go away completely at some point between six weeks and six months.
As for driving, if the surgery is left-sided and your vehicle is automatic, driving is permitted practically immediately after the procedure. Depending on the person, driving after the right-sided surgical procedure can take 2 to 6 weeks to master. It is not advised to practice driving while wearing post-op footwear.
How Can You Take Care of Yourself After the Surgery?
Following the steps listed below will help the hammertoe surgery recovery run smoothly:
- As soon as you start feeling tired, you should rest. This includes getting enough sleep.
- You should walk after hammertoe surgery as much as you can, and if you are able. At first, you will probably use crutches, and regular walks will help your blood flow, which will prevent constipation and pneumonia.
- It’s completely okay to take regular showers unless your doctor advises you to avoid them. You should only make sure the bandages stay dry. You can remove them and wash the area with some warm water, and later pat it to dry so you can reapply the bandage.
- Keep in mind that you should probably need one to four weeks off work, depending on your work position.
- Stick to instructed toe exercises after hammertoe surgery, as your doctor has advised.
Before you apply any of these tips, ensure you contact Luxe Foot Surgery and ask everything you want to know.
Watch Out for the Signs of Infection
Swelling of the toes is typical after the surgery, and it may be weeks until you start walking normally. However, if you notice anything out of the ordinary, you should contact your surgeon or doctor right away. If you notice that your toes are cool to the touch, pale, or have changed color, it’s a good idea to act immediately. Also, call your doctor if you feel tingling, numbness, or if you don’t have a normal sense of feeling in your foot.
If you notice your stitches are loose or your incisions are open, or there are stains of red blood on the bandage, you should also call your doctor. Signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pain, followed by a fever. It may also happen that your lymph nodes are swollen (check neck, armpits, or groin). There also might be some red lines extending from the cut and pus draining from the wound.
Choose the Right Time for Driving After Hammertoe Surgery
Most people who undergo hammertoe surgery are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks. However, it is important to choose the right time for driving after your surgery. Your doctor will likely give you specific instructions on when you can start driving again. It is important to follow these instructions. Driving too soon after surgery can put unnecessary stress on your toe and delay recovery.
If you had surgery on both feet, wait until you can safely operate the pedals before driving. This may take several weeks. If you had surgery on just one foot, you might be able to drive sooner. Before driving, practice using the pedals. Make sure you can reach them comfortably and that you can press down on them without pain.
Consult Your Surgeon Before Driving
Your surgeon will let you know when it is safe for you to start driving and will give you specific instructions. It is important to follow them carefully to avoid any complications and to ensure a successful recovery period. Once you have been cleared to start driving, it is important to take things slowly at first. Avoid long road trips and stick to shorter journeys. If you must drive for a long period of time, be sure to take frequent breaks to rest your foot. When stopped, elevate your foot above heart level to reduce swelling.
Contact our team if you have any additional questions. We can assist with any worries and issues you may have concerning a surgical procedure. If you are interested in contacting us, you can either fill out the inquiry form below or directly call our Luxe Foot Surgery center between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday.
FAQ
How Long After Toe Surgery Can I Drive?
Depending on the procedure you have gone through, you can either start driving almost immediately after it or wait several weeks. However, don’t make decisions on your own. In order for the procedure and recovery process to be successful, you should consult your surgeon first.
When Can You Put Weight on Your Foot After Hammertoe Surgery?
Your heel will probably tolerate weight immediately after the surgical procedure. However, you should avoid placing weight on the front of your foot, where the incisions are. Normal walking and regular shoes are something you may return to after the pin has been taken out.
How Long Should You Stay Off Your Feet After Hammer Toe Surgery?
To be able to experience the difference between before and after the procedure, you should make sure to stay off your feet for at least three to five days. Use crutches, a walker, or a cane when walking, and take it slow. Depending on your specific case, the surgeon may allow walking with specialized surgical footwear right after the procedure.
