1800-893-1264

Archive for Foot Surgery

|
No comments

How to Shower with a Broken Foot

If you thought hobbling around with a broken foot was bad enough, you’ve yet to surmount the biggest challenge of all: learning how to shower with a broken foot (cue orchestra playing a wildly dramatic tune). Sure, you’ve been able to go a day or two after the foot surgery without taking a shower. But you can’t exactly get away with not showering for the duration of your recovery period…

Unless, of course, you want to isolate your family, friends, and loved ones with your interesting body odor!

 

There’s no getting around it: you need to learn how to shower with a broken foot. Luckily, you don’t have to go through painful trial-and-error to find out: you just have to read this article.

1. Enlist a family member or a very dear loved one who can help you manage the shower for the first few times after you’ve had the cast slapped on. This can help you get used to the movements necessary for getting in the shower without risking a dangerous fall.

2. Get yourself plenty of rubber bath mats to lay in the tub as well as on the bathroom floor. You want to minimize every possible risk that could cause you to fall, including those dangerous slippery tiles.

3. Get a shower stool. This handy device allows you to sit in the middle of the shower and get clean – without putting any weight on your broken foot.

4. Before you even get into the shower, put on a waterproof cast cover. Another option is a plastic bag that is taped it shut along the leg. You want to ensure that your entire foot cast is wrapped up in the cast cover or bag, which will prevent any water from soaking your foot cast.

5. Put a non-slip shoe on your good foot while you shower. Sure, it might look like the same type of shoe that your grandma wears to water aerobics, but trust us – it’s worth the mild fashion faux pas.

6. Clear the bathroom of any clutter that might cause you to trip and fall. We’re talking loose towels, bath mats, magazines – anything that might make your broken foot more of a permanent woe than a temporary injury.

Now that you’ve got your hands on these tips to shower with a broken foot, it’s time to cut your family or roommates a break and hop in the shower – pronto!

 

Category: Foot Surgery, knee scooter, Showering with a cast | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

How to Climb the Stairs with a Broken Foot

Carefully!

Just kidding (well, not really). We know you’re looking for more than a snappy joke to the question, “how to climb the stairs with a broken foot.” And while we can’t pass up the opportunity to flex our funny bone, we know it’s important for you to get the important information you need. After all, climbing stairs with a cast slapped around your foot can be incredibly dangerous for a variety of reasons.

Ready to become the StairMaster (there we go again!)?

 

Then follow these quick-fire techniques on how to climb the stairs with a broken foot:

•Have a family member or really good friend check the railings to ensure that they’re extra supportive. Why the emphasis on “good friend”? It’s probably just because we’re secret fans of soap operas with back-stabbing friends. But seriously, make sure the person knows how to determine if a railing is stable, and what to do if it isn’t (hint: Phillips screwdriver).

• When it actually comes to climbing the stairs, sit your butt down and get ready to go up the stairs like a toddler would: on your behind. Put your injured leg out in front of you, keep your compactable mobility device by your side, place your hands behind you on the steps, and push off with your hands until your bottom is on the step.

•When you’re ready to go up the next step, keep repeating this process. To get down the stairs, simply use the same techniques, except use your hands to support your weight as you push off your bottom and sit on the next step.

•There are dangers that lay around your stairs as well. Have a family member roll up any loose rugs or carpets that could potentially slip out from underneath you.

If you don’t want to deal with learning how to climb the stairs with a broken foot, considering enlisting a friend to bring your bed downstairs. It can be a hassle at first, but it’s worth it when you don’t have to worry about climbing the stairs with a massive foot cast.

 

Category: Crutch Alternatives, Foot Surgery, Mobility Options | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

Elevating Your Broken Foot and Other Foot Surgery Recovery Tips

Foot surgery recovery can be a lot like walking into your favorite casino. You could end up getting lucky in your experience, have the time of your life, and walk away from the whole episode feeling like a million bucks…

Or you could end up feeling like your mind, body, and wallet have been drained from your foot surgery recovery!

When it comes to making the most of your healing time, you don’t have to wallow on the couch and count down the days to when you’re better. To speed up your foot surgery recovery, here’s what you need to do:

  • Elevating your broken foot is one of the most crucial techniques for recovering faster. But don’t just prop it up on your coffee table (your mom taught you better than that!). Get a nice long pillow and place it under your knee. You see, many people make the mistake of placing the pillow under the foot, but this can place a great deal of stress on your joints. Keep it under the knee, and your body will thank you for it.

ELEVATING

  • Get your hands on a stability mobility device. A knee walker can help you get around the house without putting weight on your broken foot – a crucial part of healthy recovery.
  • Make sure that your mental and emotional health is just as prioritized. Take your recovery time to read up on your favorite books, spend time with family members, or get back into that painting hobby you haven’t indulged in since college. It’s a great way to come out of your healing process feeling healed, relaxed, and rejuvenated.
  • Follow your doctor’s advice! Many patients let their medications lapse, especially after the first month of their foot surgery recovery. Take notes when meeting with your doctor, and don’t be afraid to call his or her office with any questions you might have. Remember, it’s your foot – take care of it!

By elevating your broken foot, keeping busy, and having a mobility device on hand, you should discover that your recovery period is like smooth sailing. So what suggestions do you have for recovering from a foot or ankle injury?

Category: Crutch Alternatives, Exercises after surgey, Foot Surgery, Fun After Surgery | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

Avoid Crutches-Related Injuries by Using a Steerable Knee Walker

We know what brought you to this article on steerable knee walkers. Maybe you lost your balance for a few terrifying seconds on your crutches. Maybe you slipped on your hardwood floors and gave your injured foot a good shock. Or maybe you even re-injured your ankle and have to stay in a cast for another three months.

Whatever the case, there’s one thing you know for certain: you’re ready to avoid crutches-related injuries by using a steerable knee walker.

Unlike those wobbly toothpicks we generously call “crutches,” a steerable knee walker offers a heck of a lot more stability. Most knee walker models have large and sturdy back wheels that are complimented by sleek yet stable front wheels, which make for easier turning. Rather than balancing your entire body weight on a couple inches of rubber and wood, you’re supported by a strong mobility device that actually works with your body.

Just say no!

Let’s face it: the chances of re-injuring yourself on crutches are really high. There are even more risk factors that can up your chances of falling or losing your balance, including:

  • Moving around on hardwood floors, carpet, or bumpy surfaces (basically ANY surface)
  • Suffering from arthritis or any other condition that makes it painful to use crutches
  • Suffering from back, neck, and/or muscle conditions

A steerable knee walker, on the other hand, presents a much more sensible solution to your mobility woes. By completely balancing your weight on the knee of your bad foot and propelling yourself forward with your good leg, you can get around much more quickly without looking like you grew two extra wooden arms.

Knee walkers are also much kinder on the body, especially the back, neck and shoulders. Because you’re no longer balancing your entire weight on your upper body, you’ll be able to ease any muscle aches in your back, neck and shoulders.

With so many advantages to using steerable knee walkers, it’s honestly a wonder that people still opt for crutches!

If your doctor is attempting to saddle you with crutches, don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and insist on a steerable knee walker. Trust us – your body (and sense of balance!) will thank you later.

Category: Crutch Alternatives, Foot Surgery, Knee Walkers | Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

Best Meals to Pre-Make for Foot Surgery Recovery

Let’s face it: foot or ankle surgery is never fun. But if you’ve spent the majority of your time dreading that ominous square on your calendar that contains the date of your surgery, then it’s time for a reality check:

Your foot surgery, whether you like it or not, is happening.

So you have one of two options: you can either avoid preparing for your surgery, or you can take some steps (you know, because stepping’s gonna be hard after your surgery!) to prepare for life after surgery…

And that includes discovering the best meals to pre-make for surgery recovery.

Man does not live on delivery pizza alone. So if you want to ensure that you heal in a healthy and (somewhat) enjoyable manner – without making you feel like Pizza Hut’s number one customer – here are the best meals to pre-make for surgery recovery.

Savory Baked Chicken

Baked chicken is going to be the lifeblood of your surgery recovery – and for good reason. The protein in chicken can help fuel your muscle growth and repair, while the lean meats ensure that your weight stays off of your waist as well as your injured foot.

Baked chicken can be thrown over rice, pasta, or shredded and added to a bed of lettuce. As you can see, savory baked chicken is perfect for eating well while undergoing surgery recovery.

First, grab yourself a couple pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Lay out a sheet of aluminum foil on a large baking pan. Coat the foil with cooking spray (go for olive oil spray – delicious). Lay the chicken on the pan. Now here’s the fun part: start seasoning the chicken any way you want. We’re taking garlic powder, lemon pepper rub – anything! Set the oven to 400 degrees and pop the chicken in for about 30 minutes, or until the juices are running clear.

Super-Fast Tomato and Basil Pasta

Pasta can keep for many days in your refrigerator, which makes this one of the best meals to pre-make for surgery recovery. Try out this meal, which incorporates whole grains and vegetables for maximum healing power.

First, grab yourself a box of whole grain linguine (whole grains are an excellent source of fiber) and pour into salted boiling water. While the pasta’s boiling, chop up a few cups of grape or cherry tomatoes into quarters. Next, chop up some basil leaves (make sure you take the time to enjoy the delicious scent!). Once the pasta is done boiling, drain it. Add the tomatoes and basil to the pasta, and throw in some olive oil or spaghetti sauce to bring it all together. If you’re really feeling adventurous, add some crumbled goats cheese for a tangy flavor that just won’t quit.

Foods to Avoid

While the above recipes are some of the best meals you can pre-make before surgery, it’s important to point out what you shouldn’t be eating during your recovery time. Healing your body is a delicate process, and it’s going to need all the nutrients possible. Therefore, avoid the following foods, as they don’t pack a nutritional punch:

Processed foods (buh-bye, Funions)

Dehydrated foods like beef jerky

Full fat cheese (too much can cause constipation – not really something you want to deal with on top of an injured foot or ankle)

Refined sugars (sweets, white grains, etc.)

Now that you know the best meals to pre-make for foot surgery recovery – as well as what foods to avoid – it’s time to throw on your chef’s hat and whip up a creation that would make Paula Deen jealous (butter not included).

Category: After Surgery diet, After Surgery Recovery, Foot Surgery, Nutrition After Surgery | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

What is a Non Weight Bearing Scooter?

Admit it: when you first read the title of this article, you had visions of unattended children zipping around you on those annoying little scooters. And hey, it’s understandable. But when it comes to recovering from your foot or ankle surgery, non weight bearing scooters completely change your mobility options during your recovery period. In fact, knee walkers even make it possible to forgo the awkwardness and inconvenience of crutches.

It’s enough to make you disassociate scooters with the terrifying image of children barreling towards you in a crowded mall!

If you’ve never heard of or seen a non weight bearing scooter, get ready to meet the mobility device that’s going to change the way you look at your foot or ankle recovery.

A non weight bearing scooter is also known as a knee walker or a knee scooter. This is because a non weight bearing scooter combines the sleek mobility of a scooter with the balancing powers of a walker. The combination of these two devices ends up creating something that looks like a 4-wheeled scooter with a very low seat. You can see what we mean by this in the picture above.

Speaking of seats, the reason why the non weight bearing scooter is so excellent for foot and ankle recovery is because it completely removes any pressure from your injured leg. Instead, you simply kneel your injured weight on the padded seat and propel yourself forward with your good leg. It sure beats the disaster-potential of crutches, which can often cause pain and discomfort – not to mention the chances of slipping and crashing to the ground.

Insurance companies often cover a non weight bearing scooter, so you may not have to shell out for yours. If you’re wondering if your non weight bearing scooter will be covered, simply contact your insurance company and ask how your coverage extends to knee walkers. Knee Walker Central can even verify your benefits and explain coverage, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle.

Non weight bearing scooters are perfect for patients who are recovering from foot or ankle injuries – and who want to avoid the sheer discomfort of using wooden crutches.

 

Category: After Surgery Recovery, Ankle Surgery Recovery, Crutch Alternatives, Foot Surgery, knee scooter, Knee Walkers, Mobility Options | Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

Non Weight Bearing Advice You MUST Take After Foot Surgery

Whether this is the first time you’ve experienced foot surgery or the third (if this is the case, you may want to re-examine your hobbies), you may already know the most important rule of thumb for foot surgery recovery: you MUST avoid putting weight on your injured foot.

Like with most things, it’s a lot easier said than done. Everyone’s willing to give you non weight bearing advice, but it can be difficult to take. After all, you had no idea how much you took your mobility for granted. Suddenly, simple activities like preparing yourself dinner or even walking across the office to hand in that report become monumental occasions that practically merit an Olympic gold medal.

But before you start dreaming of how you’ll look on that Wheaties box, take note: there is plenty of non weight bearing advice that’s easy to execute after a foot surgery. Best of all, most of this advice encourages you to sit back and relax – and who doesn’t need an excuse to catch up on all the seasons of Modern Family?

With this in mind, take a look at the non weight bearing advice you MUST take after foot surgery.

Make Your Bed or Couch Your Kingdom

One of the first pieces of non weight bearing advice you must take is that you should stay off your injured foot as much as possible. Sure, this might seem like common sense, but once you’re actually saddled in the cast, you might find it hard to resist getting up and walking around. That’s why you need to make your bed or couch your kingdom, where all you need is within an arm’s distance.

This means ensure that snack foods are easy to reach (enlist the help of a family member to cook meals). Keep a large stack of DVDs nearby that you can pop into your television (consider investing in a television streaming program like Netflix or Hulu, so you don’t even have to get up). Keep a large pile of books and magazines nearby to indulge in. Make your bed or couch as comfortable as possible so you won’t even be slightly tempted to leave.

Ask For Help

Many people have a hard time asking for help when they’re injured. Maybe they’re too stubborn to have a family member take over dinner duties, or maybe they’re too proud to ask for a ride into work everyday. Regardless, this next piece of non weight bearing advice is crucial – don’t be afraid to ask for the help you need. People are more willing to assist you than you might initially realize. By asking for help, you’ll be able to make your recovery period much more convenient – not to mention enjoyable!

Get a Knee Walker

Crutches are, in a word, lame. They’re awkward to deal with. They make it nearly impossible to get anywhere without bumping your foot or experiencing armpit blisters. That’s why you need to invest in a better mobility device, like a knee walker.

At Knee Walker Central, we specialize in providing injured persons with knee walkers, which make it much easier for people to get around without the inconvenience of crutches. Best of all, your arms will be freed up, which means you can open doors, grab things off of shelves, and engage in other normal activities. Your insurance company may even cover the cost of your knee walker, so be sure to ask us to help with your knee walker claim.

If you follow all of the non weight bearing advice contained within this article, you’ll find that it’s not only possible to get through your recovery period – you may actually enjoy it!

Category: Foot Surgery, Fun After Surgery, Knee Walkers | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

What To Look For In A Foot Surgery Scooter

Style. Comfort. Elegance.

Did we mention that these characteristics are what you should look for in a foot surgery scooter?

Like with picking out a new car, selecting a foot surgery scooter represents an opportunity to demonstrate your unique personality. After all, when you’re recovering from foot and ankle surgery, you’ll be on your scooter for a considerable number of weeks…

And the last thing you want is to look like you picked up your foot surgery scooter at the nearest old folks’ home!

Whether you prize a sleek and elegant look or you want to make heads turn when you roll down the sidewalk, here’s what you should look for in a foot surgery scooter:

1. Comfort: Let’s face it – you’re already uncomfortable enough as it is with a massive cast strapped to your ankle. The last thing you want is for your foot surgery scooter to make you long for the days of rock-hard desk chairs in high school. Therefore, make sure that the seat of the foot surgery scooter is plush, comfortable, and stable enough to support your weight.

2. Convenient: Foot surgery scooters should be comfortable, but they should also make it easier for you to live your life. Look for a foot surgery scooter that has a basket attached to the front. This allows you to carry around your computer, bags, purses, and anything else you’d otherwise carry in your hands or in your arms.

3. Style: Just because it’s a foot surgery scooter doesn’t mean it doesn’t have to rock! Luckily, the new generation of foot surgery scooters is sleek, elegant, and come in a variety of styles. You can head to www.kneewalkercentral.com to take a look at a wide variety of seriously stylish knee walkers, complete with a wide variety of accessories designed to make your surgery recovery time even easier.

When it comes to a foot surgery scooter, don’t settle for something medicinal and uncomfortable. Get the foot surgery scooter that you’d be proud to rock out on the sidewalks!

 

 

Category: Crutch Alternatives, Foot Surgery, knee scooter, Knee Walkers | Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

4 Helpful Tips to Keep the Rest of Your Body Active While Recovering From Foot Surgery

Experts at The Mobility Resource know how pressing it can be for those that have just undergone foot surgery, to remain as active as possible. This can go beyond a mere physical desire to heal, but involves emotional needs as well. The fact of the matter is, that despite some of the pains that come from surgery, you just want to break free of crutches and get back to your old self. We are here to tell you, there are other options. A knee walker is a great option to get you up and mobile without aggravating your foot injury, they can give you the independence and mobility that you may be longing for. Of course you can also take the route of a wheelchair, which will give you some mobility as well, and a little bit of an arm work out too.

You need to take it easy and follow your doctor’s orders. Still, there are several other ways that you can stay in shape without putting your foot at risk. Try some of these options and see what works for you.

Pay extra attention to nutrition.

Because some of your exercise routines will be hindered, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle are very important. Proper nutrition plays a huge part not only for regular benefits but also because some foods contain certain nutrients that help injuries heal. These include fresh juices not from concentrate and as many as eight servings of whole fruit a day.

Alternatively, stay away from foods that promote inflammation—foods such as potatoes, hot peppers, processed white flower and foods high in omega 3 fatty acids.

Exercise your mind.

When you’re done with surgery, take your mind off of the burning desire to get active again. Instead, stock up on some movies and books, and relax. If you are determined to somehow keep improving your body during this time, get books that focus on your physical goals, dieting or other self-improvement topics that are relevant to your goals.

Ride with your arms.

The use of an upper-body ergometer—otherwise known as an arm bike—can come in extremely handy. Many physical therapists are raving about them, particularly for those that can’t use their legs. They provide a stellar cardio workout and are a great way to relieve some of that pent up stress that might still be lingering from the surgery.

Get preoccupied.

Find an upper-body exercise that does not require the use of your foot or leg, for that matter. Pull ups can be great for this, so long as you keep your injured foot inactive. Some rehabilitation centers will also rig up a rowing exercise that keeps your injured foot safe from harm. Whichever exercise you choose, use your competitive spirit and challenge yourself. See how many reps you can do and constantly try to one-up yourself. This sort of focus will help you forget about the fact that your leg is hindered at all.

You can also get creative with other exercises. Speak to a trainer or your physical therapist to make sure anything you come up with is safe before trying them out, though. The last thing you want to do is push yourself too hard, re-injuring your foot and enduring the recovery process all over again.

Category: After Surgery diet, After Surgery Recovery, Crutch Alternatives, Foot Surgery, knee scooter, Knee Walkers, Mobility Options | Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
|
No comments

The Top 10 Worst Things About Crutches

If you’re on crutches right now, it’s safe to say that you don’t really need an article to tell you about the top 10 worst things about crutches – in fact, you’re living it everyday.

But an essential part of recovering from your foot or ankle injury is your ability to commiserate with others. After all, misery loves company – and if you’re currently sidelined by your foot or ankle injury, you probably have plenty of things you’d like to get off your chest.

 

Let us help you get started with our version of the top 10 worst things about crutches.

1. Not being able to use stairs. In fact, you had no idea there were so many staircases in the world until you landed in crutches.

2. No swimming. Sometimes you wished you hurt your foot in the winter…but then again, you’d have to contend with another foe to crutches: ice.

3. Giving up on physical hobbies. Good-bye, recreational dodge ball league…hello daytime TV and your couch.

4. Dealing with opening doors. On the plus side, you’ve come to realize that there are a ton of nice people out there in the world.

5. Dealing with public transportation. You’ve now considered yourself an avid supporter of giving up seats to the disabled, thanks to your stint on crutches.

6. Not being able to grab things on the top shelves of your kitchen cabinet. Like those nacho cheese chips that are calling to you even as you read this list.

7. Struggling to pick up your kids. Of course, this doesn’t apply if your kids are in their teens and twenties. Hopefully.

8. Leading with confidence. You may feel like your work team can only see your crutches, not your kick-butt presentation on last quarter’s sales. Don’t worry: your teammates can only notice how much you rock.

9. Going on vacation with crutches. From getting on the plane to walking around the theme park with your family, you sometimes feel like you want to throw your crutches straight out the emergency exit window.

10. Dealing with the super-strength you develop from walking around on crutches. It’s pretty difficult to deal with people’s jealousy – but we have a feeling you’ll manage.

Luckily, this list of the top ten reasons why owning crutches is awful has a happy ending. You don’t have to deal with the pain and annoyance of fumbling around with your crutches. A knee walker can provide you with all the support you need if you’re recovering from foot, ankle and knee injuries. Trust us: you’ll laugh at the thought of using crutches after you try it out.

Share your own top 10 list – or just share stories about how you’ve dealt with the curse of crutches!

Category: After Surgery Recovery, Crutch Alternatives, Foot Surgery, knee scooter, Knee Walkers | Tags: , , , , ,
« Older Entries