Orthopaedic Surgery FAQs: A Podiatrist’s Guide to Pre & Post-Operative Care

If you're preparing for orthopaedic surgery, it’s completely normal to have a lot of questions - and for new questions to arise regularly! Surgery is a big procedure, so it’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation, concern, and curiosity about what’s ahead.

As podiatrists, we work closely with orthopaedic surgeons to help patients prepare for surgery and recover successfully afterward. While we don’t perform orthopaedic surgery ourselves, we are heavily involved in prehabilitation (prehab) and rehabilitation (rehab) - two crucial parts of your journey that significantly impact your recovery outcomes.

To help, we’ve compiled 16 of the most frequently asked questions we get from our prehab and rehab patients about their orthopaedic surgery, covering everything from what to expect, recovery timelines, pain management, and how to get the best possible results. 

Please note: there are many questions that are best directed to your orthopaedic surgeon as they will have their own protocols and ways of doing things. We’ve done our best to answer here based on our close relationships with our partnering orthopaedic surgeons.

1. What is orthopaedic surgery?

Orthopaedic surgery is all about treating issues related to your bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments - essentially, the parts of your body that help you move. It can involve repairing damaged tissues, realigning joints, or even replacing worn-out joints like your knees and hips. The goal is simple: to get you moving better and without pain.

For many people, orthopaedic surgery isn’t just about fixing an injury - it’s about improving their quality of life. If you’ve been living with chronic pain, struggling with mobility, or feeling limited in your day-to-day activities, surgery can be a life-changing step forward. While your orthopaedic surgeon focuses on performing the procedure, as podiatrists, we work alongside them to support your recovery, helping you heal well and regain strength in your feet, legs, and joints.

2. What conditions do orthopaedic surgeons treat?

Orthopaedic surgeons deal with all kinds of bone, joint, and muscle issues, ranging from arthritis and fractures to tendon injuries and joint replacements. If you’ve got a painful joint, a torn ligament, or a long-term issue like bunions or a collapsed arch, you may eventually need their expertise.

Now, when it comes to the feet and lower limbs, this is where we, as podiatrists, play a big role. Many people don’t realise that conditions like chronic heel pain, Achilles tendon injuries, and even knee pain can sometimes be linked to how your feet move and function. We often work closely with orthopaedic surgeons to assess whether surgery is necessary, or if non-surgical treatments like custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, or shockwave therapy might help first.

If surgery is the right path, we also help prepare your lower limbs before the procedure and guide your recovery afterward. A lot of our patients tell us that having that extra layer of support makes a huge difference in how quickly they bounce back.

3. How do I know if I need orthopaedic surgery?

This is one of the most common questions we get, and honestly, the answer depends on your symptoms, your lifestyle, and how much your condition is affecting you. Most people don’t jump straight to surgery - it’s usually something we consider after trying other treatments first.

If you’re dealing with constant pain that isn’t improving, limited mobility, or difficulty doing everyday tasks like walking, standing, or even sleeping comfortably, surgery may be worth considering. The key question we often ask patients is: "How much is this pain affecting your life?" If the answer is "a lot", and conservative treatments haven’t helped, surgery might be the next step.

That being said, not everyone needs surgery, and that’s where our expertise as podiatrists comes in. We can help assess whether surgery is truly necessary or if there’s another way to manage your symptoms. Many people find relief with custom orthotics, strength and mobility work, or with advanced manual therapies. If surgery is the best option, as it may be with many conditions and circumstances, we’ll guide you through the process and make sure you’re in the best possible hands.

4. What are the alternatives to surgery?

Surgery is a big decision, and in many cases, it’s not the first or only option. We understand that many people like to explore non-surgical treatments first to see if they can get results without needing to go under the knife.

For foot, ankle, and lower limb problems, non-surgical alternatives often start with strength and mobility exercises to correct muscle imbalances and improve movement patterns. Custom orthotics can help support your feet and take pressure off painful areas, while other therapies can stimulate healing in soft tissue injuries like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. 

A lot of people are surprised at how much better they feel once they start the right treatment plan. That being said, if these approaches don’t work, or if your condition is severe, degenerative, or causing major limitations, surgery may still be the best option.

5. What are the risks and potential complications of orthopaedic surgery?

This really depends on the procedure you’re having and your personal circumstances - largely including your own health. Any surgery comes with risks, the most common concerns include infection, blood clots, poor wound healing, and stiffness in the joint after surgery. Some people also worry about the possibility of an implant wearing out or needing revision surgery down the track (especially with joint replacements). While these risks are real, it’s important to remember that orthopaedic surgery has come a long way. Surgical techniques, pain management, and rehabilitation programs are better than ever, meaning most people recover with excellent results. The key is following a solid rehab plan, which is where we come in.

We’ll do everything we can to help reduce the risk of complications by ensuring your lower limbs are moving well, strong, and properly supported before and after surgery. This might involve things like gait retraining, swelling management, and making sure your footwear is right for recovery. It’s all about giving your body the best chance to heal smoothly, so you can get back to living your life without pain holding you back.

6. How should I prepare for orthopaedic surgery?

Getting ready for surgery is about preparing your body beforehand so you can heal faster and recover better. The stronger and healthier your muscles, joints, and circulation are before surgery, the smoother the process will be.

We always recommend prehabilitation (prehab), which is essentially physical therapy before surgery. This helps keep your muscles strong and your joints mobile, so you go into surgery in the best possible shape.  If you’re having foot or ankle surgery, for example, we might focus on ankle mobility, balance work, and strengthening your lower limbs so that you’re not starting from scratch post-op.

Other key things to consider include:

• Managing your health. If you have diabetes, circulation issues, or any chronic conditions, making sure they’re under control reduces the risk of complications.

• Getting the right footwear and mobility aids. We can help ensure you have proper post-op shoes, braces, or orthotics if needed.

• Setting up your home for recovery. Think about reducing trip hazards, having a comfortable place to rest, and arranging help for daily activities.

We’ll guide you through all of this, working closely with your orthopaedic surgeon to make sure you’re fully prepared for a successful surgery and recovery.

7. What does the recovery process entail after surgery?

Recovery looks different for everyone, but generally, you’ll go through a few key phases:

1. The first few days to weeks: you’ll focus on managing swelling and pain, keeping the surgical site clean, and starting gentle movement (as guided by your surgeon).

2. The next few weeks to months: you’ll start building strength, improving mobility, and gradually increasing activity levels. We’ll help you adjust your walking pattern, ensuring you’re wearing the right footwear, and providing rehabilitation strategies to prevent long-term issues.

3. The long-term phase: even after the initial recovery, it’s important to keep up with strengthening, mobility work, and lifestyle adjustments to maintain your results and prevent future problems.

A big part of recovery success is sticking to your rehab plan. We work closely with orthopaedic teams to help guide you through this process step by step, ensuring your feet, ankles, and lower limbs are well supported as you regain function.

8. How long does it typically take to recover from common orthopaedic procedures?

Recovery time depends on the type of surgery, your overall health, and how well you stick to your rehab plan. Your orthopaedic surgeon will have a more specific answer for you based on your own circumstances, but here’s a very general idea:

• Total knee or hip replacement - most people are mobile again within 6 weeks, but full recovery can take 3 to 6 months (or longer for some).

• Ankle surgery (like ligament repairs or fractures) - you’ll typically be in a boot or cast for 6-8 weeks, with full recovery taking around 3-6 months.

• Bunion surgery - walking is possible within a few weeks, but full recovery can take 3-6 months, depending on the severity of the procedure.

• Achilles tendon repair - expect around 6-12 months for full recovery, with gradual return to weight-bearing activities over time.

It’s important to remember that everybody heals differently. Some people bounce back quickly, while others need more time. The key is not rushing it. Pushing too hard too soon can lead to setbacks. We’re here to help guide you through the process safely and effectively, ensuring you heal properly and get back to normal life as soon as possible.

9. Will I need physical therapy after surgery?

Yes, rehabilitation is one of the most important parts of a successful recovery. Surgery fixes the problem, but your muscles, joints, and nerves still need to rebuild strength and function afterward. Physical therapy helps with:

• Regaining strength and mobility so your joints don’t stiffen up and your muscles don’t weaken.

• Preventing complications such as blood clots, poor circulation, or uneven walking patterns.

• Reducing pain and swelling through structured movement, stretching, and manual therapy.

For foot and lower limb surgeries, we help with retraining your gait (walking pattern), recommending the right footwear, and ensuring your foot alignment is correct as you heal. If your foot mechanics aren’t addressed properly post-surgery, it can lead to compensatory issues like knee, hip, or lower back pain down the line. We work closely with orthopaedic teams to ensure your rehab plan is tailored to you, helping you get back on your feet safely and comfortably.

10. What can I do to manage pain post-operatively?

Pain is a natural part of the healing process, but it shouldn’t be unbearable. A good pain management plan includes a mix of medication, movement, and therapy techniques to keep discomfort under control while allowing your body to heal properly.

In the first few days, your surgeon may prescribe pain relief medication to help manage inflammation and discomfort. It’s important to take it as directed. Waiting until pain is severe can make it harder to control. Using ice packs and elevating the affected area can also help reduce swelling and improve circulation.

One thing that surprises many patients is that staying still for too long can actually make pain worse. Gentle movement and rehabilitation exercises help prevent stiffness and promote healing. 

Pain should gradually decrease over time, but if it feels unmanageable or is getting worse instead of better, let us and your orthopaedic surgeon know. We’ll work with you to help ensure you’re healing as comfortably as possible.

11. When can I return to work or resume normal activities?

This depends on the type of surgery you’ve had, the nature of your job, and how well your recovery is progressing. If you work in an office job where you’re mostly seated, you may be able to return to work within a few weeks. But if your job is physically demanding, requiring heavy lifting, long hours on your feet, or climbing ladders, it could take several months before you’re cleared to resume full duties.

A lot of patients ask, “how soon can I start walking again?” The answer depends on the procedure. With joint replacements, you’ll be encouraged to start moving as soon as possible to gain the benefits of early mobilisation. With foot and ankle surgeries, weight-bearing may be restricted for several weeks to allow for proper healing.

For activities like driving, sports, or even just getting back into daily errands, it’s best to follow your recovery plan closely and listen to your surgeon. Trying to rush back into things too soon can slow your healing or even cause setbacks. We help guide you through this process, working with your orthopaedic surgeon to ensure you return to work and activities safely and at the right pace for your recovery.

12. How do I choose the right orthopaedic surgeon for my condition?

Choosing the right surgeon is an important decision - much like choosing the right podiatrist for sports injuries or your surgical rehab. The best surgeon for you will depend on your specific condition, the type of procedure you need, and the surgeon’s experience in that area.

A few things we always advise our patients to look for:

• Specialisation and experience. Some surgeons focus on joint replacements, while others specialise in foot and ankle surgery or sports injuries. Make sure your surgeon has specific expertise in your condition.

• Patient reviews and recommendations. Ask other patients about their experiences and look for reviews online.

• Your level of comfort. Surgery is a big decision, and you should feel confident in your surgeon’s approach and communication style. A good surgeon should listen to your concerns and clearly explain your options.

• Collaboration with other healthcare professionals. We often recommend orthopaedic surgeons we trust because we’ve worked with them before and know they value a team approach to patient care. The best outcomes happen when your surgeon, podiatrist, occupational therapist, physio, and other specialists are all on the same page.

13. Will I need any special equipment at home during recovery?

Yes, depending on the type of surgery you’re having, you may need some temporary mobility aids and home adjustments to make your recovery smoother. If your surgery involves the lower limbs, like a knee replacement or foot and ankle surgery, you may need:

• Crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter to help you move around without putting too much weight on your healing limb.

• A raised toilet seat or shower chair to make personal care easier while your mobility is limited.

• Supportive footwear or post-op boots to protect your foot and improve stability.

• Compression stockings to help prevent swelling and reduce the risk of blood clots.

In many cases, you may also be working with an occupational therapist who can provide a range of mobility aids for your home, car and even workplace as needed.

14. What lifestyle changes can support joint health post-surgery?

After surgery, your body needs ongoing care to keep your joints working well for as long as possible. The biggest factors that can help? Movement, strength, weight management, and inflammation control. Once you’re cleared for physical activity:

• Stay active, but smartly. Regular low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling help keep joints mobile without excessive strain. 

• Build strength. Strong muscles support your joints and prevent re-injury. This is especially important if you’ve had knee, hip, or ankle surgery.

• Manage your weight. Every extra kilogram puts added stress on your joints, especially weight-bearing ones like your knees and ankles. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of joint wear and tear over time.

• Eat well for joint health. Anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), leafy greens, and nuts can help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Consulting a nutritionist or dietitian can help here.

Making these changes early means you can enjoy the most benefits from your surgery for many years to come.

15. Are there specific signs that indicate I should contact my surgeon after the procedure?

While some discomfort and swelling are completely normal after surgery, there are certain signs you shouldn’t ignore, as they could indicate complications. Call your surgeon if you experience:

• Unusual redness, warmth, or swelling that worsens instead of improving.

• Severe pain that isn’t controlled by your prescribed medication.

• Excessive bleeding or drainage from your incision site.

• A fever over 38°C, which could indicate an infection.

• Sudden shortness of breath or calf pain, which could be a sign of a blood clot.

If you ever feel something isn’t right, it’s always better to check. We can also assess your post-op progress, keep an eye on your foot mechanics, and help flag any concerns before they turn into bigger problems.

16. How do I coordinate care between my podiatrist and orthopaedic surgeon?

This is something we focus on heavily in our practice because good communication between your healthcare providers is key to a smooth recovery. You really don’t have to do anything when you choose us for your rehab and surgical prep - we work closely with orthopaedic surgeons to:

• Ensure pre-surgical preparation is optimised, reducing complications and improving outcomes.

• Create a post-op recovery plan that includes physiotherapy, podiatry, and other rehab needs.

• Monitor how your foot mechanics and gait are adjusting post-surgery to prevent secondary issues like hip or back pain from developing.

If you’re planning surgery (or recovering from one), we coordinate directly with your surgical team to make sure you’re getting the best possible care before, during, and after your procedure. Our goal is always to support your full-body recovery, not just your foot health, so you can return to daily life with confidence.

You Don’t Need A Referral To Book In With Us

While many orthopaedic surgeons refer their patients to us, you don’t need a referral to work with us for your pre-op or post-op care. You can book an appointment by calling us on 03 355 9481 or book your appointment online here.