Toe fusion surgery is the surgical procedure that is performed on the toe to straighten out the joints or a joint of the toe by a certified podiatrist.
People suffering from hammer toe, mallet toe, claw toe, and similar other big or small toe deformities are ideal candidates for toe fusion surgery.
Now, here are some tips worth following for a better experience.
Tip #1 Attend all pre-assessment screenings
To prepare yourself properly for your toe fusion surgery, try and attend all the pre-assessment screenings.
What happens at these screenings?
· Your Vitamin D levels are checked via blood tests
· You’re screened for infections and other conditions
· You’re weighed and your medical history is recorded
· Allergies to medicines (especially anesthetic drugs) will be noted
Tip #2 Stop smoking two months before your surgery
Smoking can influence the rate at which you heal from your surgery. Furthermore, it can adversely complicate matters if you have chronic health conditions.
Smoking puts you at greater risk of blood clots forming in the lungs or in the calf as well. This is why your podiatrist will recommend you quit smoking during the months leading up to your toe fusion surgery.
Tip #3 Plan for life post-surgery
The first-week post-surgery, it’s advised to stay off the foot and get as much rest as you can.
By week two you should be able to move around a bit but not enough to get back to strenuous work. Full healing can take anywhere from four to six weeks.
By month three post-operation, you should be able to resume all your normal activities. For some people, however, mild swelling will persist for up to 12 months.
Discuss your concerns with a podiatrist
Do you have any questions about toe fusion surgery? Dr. Lonny Nodelman and the team over at District Foot and Ankle are here to help. Request your appointment today.
Looking for more insight? Check out our previous posts:
· Jones Fracture of the Fifth Metatarsal – What to Know
· 5 of the Best Achilles Tendonitis Treatments
· Inner Ankle Pain
Disclaimer: Any information provided in this blog is not intended to replace medical advice given by qualified professionals.