Physiotherapy after surgery

Posted , 5 users are following.

Hello all.

I am now nearly 6 weeks post op (Scarf/Akin osteomy both feet). I was told not to do any exercises apart from heel walking for the full 6 weeks but have read that some surgeons advise physiotherapy from much earlier than this. I go back to the hospital next week and would like to know what is being recommended by other NHS Consultants  around the country. Also what are people's experiences when they have had private surgery?  I presume I will not get physiotherapy on the NHS and will need to go private or does that vary? Has anyone had infra red treatment to minimise swelling? I woud be grateful for any comments.

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Liz,

    Actually I'd like to know aswell because although my surgery was done at a private hospital it was through Nhs. I didn't know that I might not get physiotherapy through Nhssad

  • Posted

    Hi Liz,

    I was unable to get physio on the NHS, I asked my consultant and my GP and was told the wait times were around 6 weeks, by which time I would have moved on quite a bit in my recovery.  I did not wish to go private, so went online and found an exercise routine on another surgeon's website which was very helpful.

    Let us know how you get on!

    Carolinr

  • Posted

    Hi Liz, I had my op on the NHS 15 wks ago, for the first 7 wks I was in a plaster cast and was worried about not being able to do exercises to regain mobility. After I had my casts off my big toe was as stiff as a board but my surgeon wasn't worried, he just told me to start walking a little further each day?!? I also went onto a web site called 'exercises after a bunionectomy' which was very helpful. I spent quite a lot of time each day doing my exercises but still didn't think I was regaining the right amount of ROM. So I went to a physio privately, she has been marvellous, she has helped me to regain a lot more movement and has helped me with the right exercises for my toes! So, no I don't think you are necessarily entitled to physio on the NHS but all areas are different and you may be lucky?! However, if you have had your op on the NHS  you are lucky compared to a lot of other countries.....so maybe paying for a little physio to help you on your way to a full recovery and good movement , isn't too bad! All the best for a good recovery and lovely slimline feet!
    • Posted

      Thanks for your reply. Yes, you are right about being lucky to have the NHS, I think I will book myself in with a private physiotherapist --after having got this far it makes sense to do everyting to get the best end result.

      How did you select a therapist --did you find one who specialised in feet?

    • Posted

      The girl who takes Pilates in our village is a physio so I asked her if she would see me privately. I don't think you necessarily need one who specialises in feet, they all should know how to get your toes working! Ask around and see if anyone can recommend someone. Good luck!

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