The surgical incision has been closed with sutures

Do not get the dressing or wound wet for the first two weeks. When showering place a bag over the dressing and secure with tape to your leg to avoid the cast and wound getting wet

Do not remove the dressing until your 2 week appointment – the first dressing change will occur at your 2 week appointment

Stitches will be removed at your 2 week appointment

After the stitches are removed, you may begin to shower after 2-3 days

Do not immerse the foot in water (bath, hot tub, pool) for 4 weeks

Do not apply any lotions or creams on the wound for 6 weeks

You will be fully weight bearing immediately after surgery

You will be given crutches after surgery to help you for the first two weeks if needed (or you may bring your own)

You will be given a prescription for pain medication and Aspirin (blood thinner)

Pain medication should be used regularly for the first 24-48 hours, when required for the first 1 to 2 weeks, followed by Regular Tylenol

Aspirin should be taken for 14 days (unless you have an allergy to aspirin)

For right foot surgery you are not permitted to drive for 6 weeks

For left foot surgery, please contact your insurance company to see if you are permitted to drive

Driving is not permitted while on narcotics

Two weeks off work is recommended for initial recovery

If you are able to get to work safely, and will be seated for the majority of the day, you may return to work a couple days after surgery. This is assuming you are not taking narcotic pain mediation.

From 2-6 weeks sedentary duties is recommended

By 6 weeks you can slowly return to your normal duties

If your job is physically demanding, return to full duties is usually possible around 8 weeks post operatively

You will have your first appointment 2-3 weeks after surgery in the Fracture Clinic

Your next appointments will be at 6 weeks, 3 months then 6 months post operatively

It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first 2 weeks following surgery

Please come to the emergency department if you are suffering from severe pain

You will get back to most of your activities by 3 months

Swelling often remains for 6-9 months

You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 6 months

Two weeks after surgery you will be referred for physiotherapy