There are situations where you may not respond well to nonsurgical therapies for chronic foot pain or instability and may need foot surgery.
While the decision to have foot surgery isn’t always an easy one to make, our skilled foot and ankle surgeon Scott Shelton, DPM, works with you every step of the way to ensure a great outcome.
At Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic in Sandy and Highland, Utah, Dr. Shelton provides a range of foot surgery services, including comprehensive after-care services to support your recovery. If you’re planning to undergo surgery, we ensure you have the resources you need to heal fully.
Why you might need foot surgery
Foot surgery is often a last-resort treatment to alleviate pain and mobility issues from conditions like:
You should schedule an evaluation at Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic if you have persistent pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter medications and rest. You also need medical attention if you can’t walk because you’re unable to put any weight on your foot.
We offer diagnostic testing services on-site to determine if you’re a candidate for surgery. If you need foot surgery, Dr. Shelton performs your surgery in a surgical facility or an area hospital.
What to expect during your recovery from foot surgery
Many types of foot surgeries are same-day procedures, so you can expect to go home soon after to start your recovery. However, more complex foot procedures may require a stay in the hospital, so Dr. Shelton and the medical staff can carefully monitor your vital signs and evaluate your post-surgical recovery.
If you’re going home right away, we can provide you with medications if necessary to manage any pain or swelling you have. You may also need to apply ice packs to lower your risk of bruising. Before you leave the office, Dr. Shelton teaches you how to change bandages and care for the surgical site to prevent infection.
Rest is an important part of your recovery. You may need to stay seated or lying down to keep weight off your foot in the early days of your recovery. After some time, you might need to use a walker, crutches, or a cane to support your weight as you become more active.
You can expect to schedule a follow-up visit in the days after surgery, so Dr. Shelton can evaluate your surgical incisions and review any concerns you have.
Further steps to healing
Once your surgical site heals, Dr. Shelton may refer you for physical therapy. At therapy sessions, you learn exercises you can do to restore strength and stability in your foot. Your therapist can also show you exercises you can do at home to further enhance your recovery from foot surgery.
Depending on the reason for your surgery, you may need several weeks of healing time before you can resume your usual work schedule and daily activities. Dr. Shelton prepares you in advance, so you can take time off from your job and other responsibilities while you heal.
If you have diabetes or other medical conditions that can complicate your healing from surgery, Dr. Shelton can discuss any specialized care you might need. We also offer shoe inserts and other custom orthotics to better support your feet and ankles after surgery.
Call the Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic office near you to find out if you’re a candidate for foot surgery or book a consultation online today.