Hi
I will be taking care of my mother (55) after her single big toe fusion surgery and I would love to hear any tips or suggestions from those of you who have already had this surgery (or similar). Her house is full of stairs, so I imagine at least for a while I'll be assisting her in gettin up to her room, or down to the kitchen etc...Did you use crutches on the stairs ? or special non-slip socks? or shoes? Also, what was your pain level? (i realise that everyone is different, but...) I'm going to be comming from out of state and i'd like to take her to the movies, shopping etc and i'm just wondering if this is even a possiblitity in the first three weeks? Also, do you have any suggestions on mobility devices?

The doctor should explain all of your mother restrictins before and after the surgery if not ask.

If your mother is other wise normal she can get up and down the stairs with one crutch if nessisary if she can put weight on her heel then she need no assitance with the stair just modify the she does it (heel first then foot follows). Asked the Doctor about restrictions if you are still concerned ask if you can take the the crutches and healing shoe home early to practice actives of daily living.

Dear Snowangel
Fusions of the 1st metatarsalphalangeal joint can take anywhere between 4-8 weeks to fuse. Activity level depends upon the doctor and his/her specific orders. Pain is relative and individual, however, usually the patients complain of the most pain peaking between the first 3-4 days following surgery. Activity will have to be limited. Stair climbing can definately be a burden. Is there a bedroom on the main floor near all the amenities? Your mother will probably be given crutches or a cane, which will relieve the pressure applied to the affected foot. Make sure that she is properly trained using the device in a normal setting as well as when climbing up and down stairs.

Good-luck and thank-you for contacting foot.com,
SBarlizo, DPM, C Ped
foot.com expert