Preparing for any surgery can feel overwhelming, but at Stride Forward Podiatry, we are committed to making your experience as smooth, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. Our state-of-the-art Minimally Invasive Surgical (MIS) Suite is specifically designed to provide advanced treatments that prioritize your safety and allow for a faster recovery.
If you are scheduled for a minimally invasive procedure in our office, here is exactly what you can expect on the day of your surgery and in the early stages of your recovery.
A Comfortable, Same-Day Experience One of the greatest benefits of our MIS suite is outpatient convenience. Our minimally invasive procedures are completed as same-day surgeries, meaning you will not have to endure a prolonged hospital stay or recover in a rehabilitation facility. You will be able to return to the comfort and privacy of your own home on the exact same day.
Flexible Anesthesia Options Because minimally invasive surgery involves significantly less trauma to your tissues, it allows for gentler anesthesia options. Procedures are most commonly performed under local or regional anesthesia. We typically utilize peripheral nerve blocks such as ankle blocks or popliteal sciatic nerve blocks to effectively numb the targeted area. Depending on your comfort level and the specifics of your surgery, these nerve blocks can serve as your primary anesthesia, or they can be combined with light sedation.
Inside the Procedure Room During the procedure, Dr. Holzworth uses advanced diagnostic imaging and real-time fluoroscopy to view the bones with pin-point precision.
- Tiny Incisions: Instead of the 5 cm or larger incisions required for traditional open surgery, we use specialized micro-instruments through tiny “keyhole” incisions that measure just 1 to 2 cm or less. This means virtually invisible scarring and a lower risk of wound complications.
- No Permanent Hardware: For many conditions, including bunions and hammertoes, we use precise bone realignment techniques that eliminate the need for permanent metal screws, pins, or plates. This significantly reduces the risk of long-term irritation and future hardware-removal surgeries. *Some cases do require hardware*
Accelerated Healing with Laser Therapy To optimize your recovery before you even leave the clinic, we utilize Class IV Laser Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy). This non-invasive “cold laser” technology acts as a bio-stimulant right at the surgical site. By penetrating deep into the tissues without generating heat, the light energy encourages faster cellular turnover, dramatically reduces swelling, and calms the nerves. This natural pain relief provides a more comfortable recovery and frequently lowers our patients’ dependence on prescription oral pain medications.
Heading Home & Your Recovery Timeline For forefoot and midfoot procedures, such as minimally invasive bunion correction, our protocols allow for immediate weight-bearing. Most patients are able to walk out of the clinic on the very same day wearing a protective shoe or surgical boot.
Here is a general timeline of what to expect as you heal at home:
- Weeks 1–2: You will experience mild swelling and should limit your activity. While you may have moderate pain in the first few days, it will be significantly less than what is typical of traditional open surgery.
- Weeks 3–4: Discomfort will quickly decrease, allowing you to comfortably increase your walking.
- Week 6: Pain drops to a minimal level, and you can generally return to your normal daily activities.
- 3 Months: The majority of patients feel fully recovered from forefoot procedures. (Note: Hindfoot and ankle procedures typically require a longer functional recovery of 6 to 12 months).
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living If you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain, or think this condition may apply to you, we’re here to help.
👉 Schedule your consultation today and learn about minimally invasive treatment options: https://strideforwardpodiatry.com
Disclaimer: This material is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.
