Discharge Instructions for Foot Surgery

Arrange to have an adult drive you home after surgery. If you had general anesthesia, it may take a day or more to fully recover. So for at least the next 24 hours:

• Do not drive or use machinery or power tools.

• Do not drink alcohol.

• Do not make any major decisions.

Diet

Here are some dietary suggestions following surgery: 

• Start with liquids and light foods (like dry toast, bananas, and applesauce). As you feel up to it, slowly return to your normal diet.

• Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water or other nonalcoholic fluids a day.

• To avoid nausea, eat before taking narcotic pain medicines.

Medicines

It is important to follow these directions: 

• Take all medicines as instructed.

• Take pain medicines on time. Do not wait until the pain is bad before taking your medicines.

• Avoid alcohol while on pain medicines.

Activity

These instructions are to help with your recovery: 

• Sit or lie down when possible. Put a pillow or 2 under your heel to raise your foot above the level of your heart.

• Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen peas in a thin cloth. Place it over your bandaged foot for no longer than 20 minutes. Do this 3 times a day.

• You can drive again in 7 days or as instructed by your healthcare provider.

• Wear your surgical shoe at all times unless told otherwise by your healthcare provider.

• Use crutches or a cane as directed.

• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about putting weight on your foot.

Bandage and cast care

Here are tips to follow: 

• Do not shower for 48 hours.

• When you can shower again, cover the bandage, splint, or cast with a plastic bag to keep it dry.

• Don’t remove your bandage until your healthcare provider tells you to. If your bandage gets wet or dirty, check with your healthcare provider. You can likely replace it with a clean, dry one.