Foot surgery is a standard treatment option for many foot problems. It’s helpful to know about foot surgery procedures and their recovery times. Your podiatrist can tell you more. Dr. Jimmy Gregory is a podiatrist who provides comprehensive foot and ankle services and treatments, including foot surgery. He has two convenient office locations in Decatur and Atlanta, GA.

What You Need to Know About Foot Surgery

There are many types of foot and ankle surgery. Some of the more common foot and ankle surgeries include:

• Bunion surgery, commonly known as a bunionectomy–removes large bunions and realigns the bones in your toe and foot
• Joint fusion or bone realignment–commonly performed in cases of foot or ankle arthritis
• Ulcer treatment–to help heal tissue damage from a diabetic ulcer
• Achilles tendon release–a helpful procedure to relieve plantar fasciitis pain
• Reconstruction and realignment of broken bones–to restore form and function to your feet or ankles

The goals of foot surgery are to:

• Relieve pain when you move
• Improve mobility and weight support
• Improve flexibility so you can become active again
• Increase stability and balance when you are walking or standing

Your treatment begins with a thorough examination of your feet and ankles. Imaging studies are often advised to help with diagnosis and treatment. If foot surgery is recommended, there are some steps you need to take before foot surgery. Remember to:

• Bring a driver to take you home after your procedure
• Follow the instructions given to you by your podiatrist
• Don’t smoke before or after surgery
• Rest and elevate the surgery area for the first 2 weeks
• Keep your bandage or cast dry after surgery
• Take your medications, including pain medications

The surgical area may be swollen and tender for 3 to 4 months, and you may be unable to move around for a period of time. You may want to ask for help from family or friends before surgery. Typically, you can expect to return to normal activities after 6 months, with full recovery after 1 year, depending on the type of surgery.

Want To Know More About Foot Surgery?

To find out more about recovery from foot surgery, call podiatrist Dr. Jimmy Gregory. You can reach him in Decatur, GA, by calling (404) 284-7744, or in Atlanta, GA, by calling (404) 755-2291, so call today.