A woman from Norton has praised a new NHS clinic helping patients in Teesside who are waiting for foot or ankle surgery.
Emily Hanley is one of the first patients to go to the sessions at the University Hospital of Hartlepool – set up to help people prepare for surgery and have a faster recovery.
The new foot and ankle school, led by senior surgical care practitioners, aim to provide patients with practical information about planned procedures, what to expect before, during and after surgery, and how to manage recovery effectively.
Emily, who is 27, suffers from hypermobility and needed ankle ligament reconstruction surgery at Hartlepool.
Session helped with surgery worries
Speaking at her post-surgery appointment at the University Hospital of North Tees, she said: “I found the session really helpful. I have never had surgery before, the idea of coming to hospital was scary.
“I had no idea what was coming, I get anxious about being in hospital.
“It took a huge weight off my shoulders, the team talked me through everything and answered all of my questions.
“They were nothing but helpful and made me feel informed and not anxious about coming in for my operation.”
Keeping patients informed and confident
Beth Alderton is one of the experienced members of the extended surgical team who has formed the clinic, which is the first of its type for foot and ankle surgery in Teesside.
Beth, who is a senior surgical care practitioner, said: “We understand that preparing for surgery can raise many questions and can feel daunting.
“The aim of this session is to help our patients feel informed, confident and ready for their surgery – and it’s fantastic to hear from people like Emily that this is the case.
“Patients receive advice on pain management, post-operative care and expected recovery timelines.
“It also covers rehabilitation and physiotherapy, mobility and weight-bearing restrictions, the use of walking aids and protective footwear, and ways to optimise health before surgery.
“Patients can also meet members of the clinical team, ask questions and discuss any concerns.
“Physiotherapists also attend selected sessions to offer guidance on recovery exercises and rehabilitation, helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes following surgery.
“The team encourages all eligible patients to attend, highlighting the important role the sessions play in preparing for surgery and ensuring patients feel supported throughout their treatment journey.”
All patients with a date for foot or ankle surgery are invited to the sessions and are contacted directly by the team.