Curious About Achilles Tendon Surgery? Get 7 Free Tips Today!
Do you have pain in the back of your ankle? Did your doctor say you need Achilles tendon surgery? You may feel scared or unsure. That’s okay!
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we want to help you feel better. Our surgeon, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, is here to guide you.
This guide will give you 7 easy tips to help you heal. Let’s get started!
1. Know What the Achilles Tendon Does
The Achilles tendon is a strong band behind your ankle. It helps you walk, jump, and run.
Sometimes it gets torn or damaged. That’s when Achilles tendon surgery may be needed.
Doctors fix the tendon so it can work again. Most people feel better after they heal.
2. Rest Is Your First Step
After surgery, your foot needs a break. You can’t walk on it right away.
Use crutches, a scooter, or a boot to keep weight off. Prop your foot up when sitting or lying down. Keep it above your heart to stop swelling.
Too much too soon can hurt your tendon. Give it time. Healing starts with rest.
3. Eat Foods That Help You Heal
Your body needs the right foods to fix itself. Good food makes healing faster.
Eat:
- Chicken, fish, eggs
- Fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and whole grains
Drink water, not soda. Cut back on sugar and junk food.
Protein helps your tendon rebuild. A study shows protein helps tissues repair.
4. Follow the Doctor’s Plan
After surgery, your doctor gives you a healing plan. You must follow it step by step.
Your plan may include:
- Wearing a boot or cast
- Taking pain medicine
- Doing light foot exercises
- Returning for check-ups
Do not skip visits. Do not take off your boots early.
If you feel pain, call your doctor. At our office in Scottsdale, AZ, we are always here to help.
5. Start Moving Slowly
When your doctor says it’s okay, you will begin to move your foot again.
Start with:
- Gentle foot stretches
- Light ankle rolls
- Slow walking with help
Do not rush. Doing too much too soon can cause damage. You want to be careful and kind to your foot.
6. Watch for Signs of Trouble
After surgery, watch your body for signs of problems.
Call your doctor if you see:
- Redness or pus around the stitches
- Fever or chills
- Swelling that won’t go down
- Pain that gets worse, not better
Early care keeps small problems from becoming big ones.
7. Stay Positive and Be Patient
Healing takes time. You may need 3 to 6 months to feel good again. This is normal for Achilles tendon surgery.
While healing, try to:
- Read or watch movies
- Talk to family or friends
- Celebrate small steps
Good thoughts can help your body heal faster. Studies show a happy mood helps your body recover.
Let’s Review
Here’s a quick look at your 7 free tips:
- Know how the Achilles tendon works
- Rest your foot after surgery
- Eat foods that help healing
- Follow your doctor’s plan
- Move slowly when it’s time
- Watch for signs of problems
- Stay positive and patient
These steps help your tendon heal well.
FAQs
How long does recovery take?
Most people recover in 3 to 6 months. Some may take longer, depending on age and health.
Can I walk after surgery?
Yes! But not right away. You’ll use crutches or a boot first. Then you’ll walk slowly as you heal.
Will my foot feel normal again?
Yes. With rest, care, and therapy, your foot can feel strong again.
We’re Ready to Help You Heal
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we want you to feel strong again. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is a trusted foot and ankle surgeon. He’s helped many people just like you.
Our office in Scottsdale, AZ, is warm and welcoming. We take time to listen and care. You can count on us to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Us Today!
Have questions about Achilles tendon surgery? Want to make an appointment?
Visit our website and go to the Contact Us page. Or click Request an Appointment to get started. Let’s help you get back on your feet—one step at a time!
