Stilwell Foot & Ankle, LLC/Bunion Correction Institute
Post-Operative Instructions
- Go directly home; elevate feet on the way home. Once home keep feet elevated at least 6" above heart to lesson swelling. Use the electrical stimulator (TENS or IF unit) continually the first 1-2 days.
- Ice helps to prevent swelling especially during the first 24 hours. Place ice in a plastic or rubber bag and wrap in a towel. Also use electrical stimulator to reduce swelling.
- If you have an ACE bandage, rewrap it if it is too tight or loose, but LEAVE GAUZE INTACT. If your foot (part or all) starts to swell excessively, gets cold, blue, numb or if pain increases, have it checked immediately.
- Despite the best care, any wound can become infected. If the toes become red, swollen, show pus or red streaks, soreness increases or your temperature is greater than 101 degrees, notify Dr. Stilwell immediately. Severe calf pain and shortness of breath is also a warning sign. It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling and bleeding through your bandages. It is not unusual to experience bruising, numbness and shooting pain (which could last 10-20 seconds).
- Keep your cast/dressing dry at all times. Use the Xerosox (rubber bootie) for bathing & swimming.
- Limit your walking during the first 24 hours; you may walk to the bathroom and to go eat, YOU MUST WEAR YOUR SURGICAL SHOE OR WALKING BOOT FOR ANY WALKING. Do not bear weight on your foot without the walking boot and/or crutches.
- After 24 hours, we encourage you to start walking "a little." This will aid in reducing your recovery time. When pain or swelling occurs, stop and elevate your foot/feet promptly.
- At night avoid putting pressure on your feet with heavy bedcovers. Un-tuck the covers or use a cardboard box (cut the ends out) to keep the blankets from pressing on your foot/feet.
- Do not drive a car, operate machinery/power tools or drink alcoholic drinks (not even a beer) for 24 hours or while taking pain medications. Be wary of making important decisions or signing business/legal documents for 24 hours.
- Exercise your legs frequently by bending you knees and ankles and drawing the ABC's (see Post Op exercise sheet) with toes to stimulate circulation and promote healing.
- As far as diet is concerned, start with liquids such as water, 7-Up and Ginger Ale, then broth, tea and bland crackers, eventually working up to solid foods. Remember to stay well hydrated and avoid smoking.
| Medications | Time to be taken | Comments |
| Narcotic Pain Medication | Take at 1st sign of pain | Take 1 before bed day of surgery |
| Traumeel Tables | 1 tablet 3x daily | Begin 3-4 days prior to surgery |
| Immuno Bac | Orally 6 drops (1 dropper full) 4x daily. | Begin 3-4 days prior to surgery |
Stilwell Foot & Ankle, LLC
Bunion Correction Institute
575 RiverGate Lane, #95
Durango, CO 81301
Tel: 970.259.5303
Toll-free: 1.800.294.1201
Fax: 970.259.3510
» Map and Directions