When Can I Drive After Foot or Ankle Surgery?

Most people can drive again between 2 and 12 weeks after foot or ankle surgery. The exact time depends on the operation, which foot was operated on, whether you drive a manual or automatic car, and whether you are still in a cast or boot. You should never drive on the day of surgery, and most patients wait until after their first post-operative check at 10–14 days.

Typical times to return to driving

These are a rough guide only. Mr Senthi will tell you what applies to you at your follow-up appointment.

  • Simple ankle arthroscopy: 10–14 days

  • Soft tissue excision (e.g. lump or ganglion): 2–3 weeks

  • Ankle arthroscopy with cartilage (OCD) treatment: 2–6 weeks

  • Bunion surgery: 6-12 weeks

  • Midfoot fusion: 6–12 weeks

  • Foot and ankle fracture surgery: 6–12 weeks

  • Ankle, subtalar or triple fusion: about 12 weeks

For the longer operations, you may be able to drive sooner if the surgery was on your left foot and you drive an automatic car.

Right foot or left foot?

Your right foot controls the accelerator and brake, so surgery on the right foot or ankle usually means a longer wait. You need full control of both pedals, including the strength to stop suddenly in an emergency.

If your left foot was operated on and you drive an automatic, you may be able to return sooner, because the left foot is not used to drive. You still need to be off strong pain relief and able to get in and out of the car safely.

Do not try to drive by using your left foot on the pedals while your right foot is in a cast or boot. This is not a safe alternative.

Casts, boots and braces

You should not drive while wearing a cast, moon boot or brace on your right leg. Wait until it has been removed and your ankle moves well enough to brake firmly.

After a general anaesthetic or strong painkillers

  • Do not drive for at least 24 hours after a general anaesthetic or sedation. Your reactions and judgement can be affected even if you feel normal.

  • Arrange for someone to drive you home from hospital.

  • Do not drive while taking strong pain relief such as opioids (e.g. oxycodone, tramadol or codeine). Wait at least 24 hours after your last dose.

Are you ready to drive? A quick check

Before you drive, you should be able to:

  1. Sit in the driver's seat comfortably and get in and out without help.

  2. Press the brake pedal hard and quickly without pain.

  3. Move your foot between the pedals easily.

  4. Turn to look over your shoulder and react quickly.

A good test is to sit in the parked car with the engine off and practise an emergency stop. If you hesitate or it hurts, you are not ready.

Your responsibility and your insurance

In New Zealand it is your responsibility to make sure you are fit to drive. If you drive before you are safe to do so, your car insurance may not cover you if you have an accident. If you are unsure, check with your insurer and ask Mr Senthi at your follow-up appointment.

Still unsure?

Ask Mr Senthi at your post-operative appointment, or call the rooms on (09) 520 9558. For flying, travel and returning to work after surgery, see our Post-operative FAQs.