How Long Does It Take to Recover From Foot and Ankle Surgery?
Recovery after foot or ankle surgery depends on the procedure performed, the surgical technique, the patient’s overall health and the physical demands of work and daily activities. Some minimally invasive procedures allow protected weightbearing immediately, while more extensive tendon and reconstructive procedures require a period of immobilization.
The timelines below describe typical recovery milestones for Dr. Jungwoo Han’s patients. Your individual recovery plan may differ based on your condition, imaging findings and surgical procedure
MINIMALLY INVASIVE BUNION/HAMMERTOE SURGERY
With MIS (Minimally Invasive Surgery) technique I specialize, you can put weight on the foot immediately after the surgery in a surgical shoe.
You can return to normal activities including working out in 6 weeks with regular shoes.
MORTON’S NEUROMA SURGERY
If you find it comfortable, after the anesthesia wears off, you can bear weight on your surgical foot immediately after the surgery.
Until your stitches are removed you will use a post-op shoe.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE METATARSAL OSTEOTOMY
For most cases and with the MIS (Minimally Invasive Surgery) technique, you can put weight on it immediately after the surgery in a surgical shoe or a boot.
You can wear sneakers, or running shoes by week 3 of the recovery.
After 6 weeks you can start exercising in sneakers or running shoes.
BACK OF YOUR ARCH AND UNDER YOUR ANKLE
With the newest MIS (Minimally Invasive Surgery) technique, you can put weight on the foot with a boot.
In the first 3 weeks, you can walk with a boot.
After 6 weeks you can begin to wear normal shoes.
REPAIRING YOUR ACHILLES TENDON
For the first 3 weeks, you will be wearing a splint or cast and can’t bear weight on the surgical foot.
You may slowly start to stand on this foot after 3 weeks while wearing a boot and heel lift.
You can most likely wear your favorite pair of shoes again after about 8 weeks.
REATTACHING YOUR ACHILLES TENDON
You will not be able to bear weight on the surgical foot for 4 weeks.
At about 4 weeks I transition my patients from a cast to a boot.
Again these time frames are my medical opinion based on the average recovery times of my patients. I will work with you to ensure the overall health of your foot, and to get you back in your favorite pair of shoes as quickly and safely as possible.
When Can I Return to Work?
Return-to-work timing depends on both the procedure and the patient’s occupation. Someone working remotely or at a desk may return sooner with appropriate elevation and activity restrictions. Patients whose jobs require prolonged standing, walking, lifting or climbing may need additional recovery time or modified duties.
Dr. Han provides an individualized return-to-work plan based on the surgical procedure and physical requirements of the patient’s job.
What Can Delay Recovery?
Extensive swelling
Diabetes or neuropathy
Poor circulation
Smoking or nicotine exposure
Inadequate adherence to postoperative restrictions
Delayed bone healing
Infection or wound complications
Returning to activity prematurely
Hopefully, you never need any type of foot or ankle surgery, but if you find yourself in a situation where you might, please contact my office and make an appointment. Ignoring your pain could cause more damage so early intervention is key to restoring overall health to your feet.
River Podiatry, with locations in Pearl River NY, and Midland Park NJ, Dr. Han provides comprehensive diagnosis and care for various foot health issues. Dr. Han specializes in MIS foot and ankle surgery and the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Expect the best possible care utilizing the most modern techniques. Make an appointment today with Rockland County and Bergen County podiatrist Dr. Han.
For more information about MIS (Minimally Invasive Surgery) technique, please see our blog titled “What is Minimally Invasive Surgery?”