8 Essential Tips to Prepare Your Home Before Having Foot Surgery

Good postoperative care is key when recovering from foot surgery, and home preparation is essential. Board-certified podiatric surgeon Jared Clegg, DPM, FACFAS, and his team at Cascade Foot & Ankle have extensive experience managing a wide range of foot and ankle surgeries, from basic sports injuries to complicated abnormalities. Patients can count on our expertise to get them through surgery and to the finish line. 

Preparing your home to best support your recovery from foot surgery is a wise step. Here are eight tips that can go a long way in supporting a smooth recovery. 

#1: Clear pathways

Foot surgeries, such as plantar fasciitis surgery or bunion surgery, temporarily impact mobility, making it essential to ensure that your home has safe pathways for you to get around as you recover. It's vital to make sure all pathways in your home are free of anything that could impede your mobility or increase the risk of tripping and falling. Remove items such as electrical cords, ensure that rugs are secure with rug tape or rug staples, and clear away any clutter. 

It’s also a good idea to reorganize your furniture to create wider walkways that can make it easier and safer for you to navigate at home. This is especially important in areas like between your bedroom and bathroom.

#2: Install safety features

Make safety a top priority when recovering from foot surgery. Consider installing grab bars in key areas of your bathroom, such as near the toilet and in the shower or tub. Handrails along stairways and in hallways can also reduce the risk of falls when you’re less mobile. Additionally, placing non-slip mats in slippery areas, such as in front of your kitchen sink and in the bathroom, will help you navigate safely.

#3: Create a living space on one level

Navigating stairs after foot surgery is not only challenging, but also risky. If your bedroom is on an upper floor, consider creating a temporary set up on the ground floor. Create a comfortable sleeping area, with easy access to a bathroom and the kitchen. This setup will help you manage your daily activities with greater ease.

#4: Prepare a recovery area

Set up a recovery zone in your home. This area should include a comfortable chair or sofa with a footrest where you can elevate your foot. Doing so is essential for minimizing swelling after surgery. 

Stock this area with necessities such as medications, water, snacks, books, and a laptop. The goal is to have everything you might need within arm's reach.

#5: Adjust bathroom accessibility

Modify your bathroom to make it more accessible. A shower chair can provide stability and comfort if standing is challenging. Consider using a raised toilet seat so that you can sit and stand with greater ease. 

#6: Organize a support system

The first few weeks after surgery are often the most challenging. Organize a support system of family and friends who can assist with daily tasks such as cooking, shopping, and cleaning. If you live alone, you might also consider professional help or making use of delivery services for groceries and meals. 

#7: Stock up on supplies

Gather all the necessary supplies before your surgery so that you have them on hand. Stock up on groceries, toiletries, medications, and any other essentials you’ll need during your recovery. Good preparation helps means you can focus on recovery and won’t need to make any unplanned trips to get essentials. 

#8: Plan for pet care

If you have pets, think ahead about their care during your recovery. Managing pets, especially active dogs, can be challenging when you’re recovering from foot surgery. Arrange for someone to take care of feeding and walking them, or set up feeding stations and pet areas that are easily accessible to you, to minimize bending.

Taking the time to prepare your home for recovery after foot surgery can lead to a smoother, safer healing process. By following these tips, you can focus on your recovery, knowing that everything you need is within reach and your environment is secure. 

Cascade Foot & Ankle is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us at our offices in Provo and Nephi, Utah, to discuss any additional preparations you might need for your specific situation, and rest assured that we’re committed to helping you get back on your feet after foot surgery.