By Karen Bakar
I can’t recall exactly when the bunion on my left foot started causing discomfort, but it was probably when I was about 40. I waited some time to get a referral to a podiatrist, and when I finally saw one, life with two kids and a full-time job stalled my pursuit of treatment for another three and half years.
The podiatrist diagnosed moderate hallux valgus–not the worst case scenario, but I was definitely a good candidate for surgery. He explained that, while the procedure would correct the problem, the decision to go that route was ultimately up to me, based on my willingness to tolerate the discomfort of doing nothing.
I knew people who had gone through the procedure, and their accounts of severe pain in the immediate aftermath, as well as weeks of inconvenience scared me off, so I opted to first try managing my pain with new footwear. My shoe budget expanded, and I found salvation in several pairs of clogs and other more sensible, but expensive, styles. Even so, eventually the moderate discomfort I was experiencing turned to excruciating pain that often kept me awake at night and disrupted my workouts.
On my next visit to the podiatrist, in June 2012, I was intent on scheduling a date for surgery. Anticipating about a month of major life disruption, I targeted January 2013 for the procedure, when the craziness of Thanksgiving and Christmas would be behind me, work would be reasonably slow, and family and travel commitments were minimal.
Healing the bone
Figure 1. The soft boot worn immediately after surgery.
On January 9, my podiatrist performed a bunionectomy with distal osteotomy. He prepared me well for the surgery and reviewed milestones and expectations for the first two months. As he described it, this period is about healing the bone. The progression is predictable–from five days with absolutely no pressure on the foot, to the resumption of modified activities in six to eight weeks. Nearly five months postsurgery, I’ve learned that “healing the bone” is only one part of the full recovery.
The initial pain was not as severe as I had expected based on my friends’ accounts, and I never felt the need to fill the Vicodin prescription the nurses gave me. I think my podiatrist’s advice was sound–to let the local anesthetic wear off, and then evaluate the pain level. In my case, over-the-counter relief was sufficient.
I found that during the first few critical days it was important to have lined up help. Friends had arranged meal deliveries every night for the first week, a lifesaver given my inability to get out of bed without crutches. Having a husband who works at home and kids old enough to be somewhat self-sufficient certainly didn’t hurt. The relatively manageable level of pain continued to surprise me, though knowing how fragile my foot was, I was petrified that someone would bump it or that I’d accidentally step on it. One wrong move could send the pain meter off the charts and me back to the operating room!
My biggest concern was sleeping, when things beyond my control could come into play–the dog could jump on the bed and onto my foot, I could get up in the middle of the night and forget I had just had foot surgery (thankfully, that never happened), or I could make involuntary movements while sleeping that might jostle my foot. I wore the soft boot the podiatrist gave me for moderate protection, and had to sleep on my back for several weeks with my foot elevated and outside the heavy covers. It didn’t make for a great night’s sleep, but it worked well enough.
Getting back into a routine
After four weeks, I returned to work, mainly sitting at a computer. I’m fortunate to have great health benefits, so I was able to maximize disability leave. I arranged parking inside my building during the first two weeks of my return, and, with swelling still an issue, I brought a pillow to prop up my foot. I also had my podiatrist provide me with a medical certificate so I could apply for a disabled parking placard from the State of California.
The walking boot I started using five days postsurgery was unattractive and clunky, but did the job and sure beat crutches. Because it didn’t go far past my ankle, it allowed me to walk with a somewhat normal gait. Wearing a flat but elevated shoe on the other foot helped keep my hips aligned and minimized the limp. I found that Dansko clogs were almost the perfect height (1.5-in heel) to match the boot’s elevation.
Once out of the walking boot, a little less than six weeks after surgery, it was time to venture into real footwear. (Even today, more than six months postsurgery, shoe selection is a bit of trial and error and one of the more unexpected frustrations of my recovery.) The podiatrist suggested soft tennis shoes as a first step, but I found the laces were too constricting, and I couldn’t fit the sneaker onto my foot. The best postsurgery shoes, for me, were shearling Ugg boots. Assuming the boot is not too snug to begin with, there’s generally enough room to accommodate some swelling. The soft, flexible material and internal padding were so comfortable I almost forgot I had just had foot surgery.
Figure 2. Examples of shoes the author still was unable to wear five months after surgery because they cut across the incision area.
By two months, I still hadn’t started working out even though my podiatrist said I could begin exercising after four weeks. Exercise means different things to different people, so when doctors have that discussion with patients, it’s wise to be specific about the types of exercise the patient enjoys and what their goals and expectations are.
My particular routine involves aerobic classes, yoga, and dance. All of these require a high degree of toe flexibility, and are thus harder to resume than activities with little to no strain on the toe, such as swimming or riding a bike. I waited three months after the surgery to resume working out, and even then, began at a modified level and pace. It took a good four months to ramp up to my preferred routine. Five months after surgery, I’m enjoying these activities with a lot less pain than I had presurgery; however, I’m not yet pain-free, and I continue to notice the difference in flexibility between my two feet.
Bumps in the road
By the two-month mark, the danger of complications related to the bone healing had passed, and up to that point, my recovery was pretty much textbook.
Figure 3. The author’s active lifestyle requires a high degree of toe flexibility.
Swelling and moderate pain continued to be issues, however, something I hadn’t expected at this stage of the game. I knew the recovery would be difficult, but I didn’t realize how prolonged it would be. Everything I had focused on up to this point was about healing the bone and keeping it safe. The milestones my doctor outlined so clearly were easy to define, and I understood exactly what I needed to do.
After the eight-week mark, though, as I was transitioning into normal activity levels, I realized my recovery would depend as much on me as it would on my doctor. The podiatrist had guided me successfully through the precarious first few weeks of healing, and while follow-up visits were still on the calendar, the homestretch to recovery–including the ability to do my normal workouts and wear halfway attractive shoes–would involve more time, effort, and some unexpected bumps in the road.
One day at work, two months after surgery, I noticed my foot had become unusually swollen and was turning a disturbing shade of purple. My calf started to throb unbearably with what could only be described as a warm sensation. I had developed a blood clot, and if a coworker hadn’t suggested the possibility, it never would have occurred to me. Sufficiently alarmed by my colleague’s observation, I did some amateur research and discovered that I had almost every symptom and risk factor one could have for deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Blood clots: Rare but risky
Surgery is a general risk factor for DVT, but the condition is not common after a bunionectomy. Statistics about the risk of clotting after this procedure are hard to come by, and according to my hematologist, bunionectomy is not the type of high-risk procedure that typically causes clotting.
Figure 4. Physical therapy helped significantly improve forefoot range of motion in the operated foot.
Nevertheless, my surgical history combined with the facts that I was taking oral contraceptives, had been on a recent flight, and had been relatively immobile for so long after the surgery, seemed to have created a perfect storm. It’s unlikely the surgery caused the blood clot, but I’m convinced it played a role.
Doctors performing bunionectomies might do well to warn patients, especially women on birth control, about the possibility of DVT, despite the low risk. I might have opted not to fly when I did. I might have been more conscious of staying mobile, elevating my foot more frequently, and staying better hydrated to minimize the risk of DVT. I certainly would have stopped taking oral contraceptives, the most significant risk factor.
Recovery after healing
Five months after surgery, I’m on track to what I hope and expect will be a full recovery. Even though my foot has technically been healed for months, it’s not 100% recovered. I still experience minor swelling around the incision, and that keeps me from wearing about a third of my shoes–the ones that have the least flexibility and that cut across the surgical site. “Thickness or puffiness” is how my podiatrist describes this swelling, and I usually notice it at the end of the day, especially with tighter-fitting shoes. He explained that the bunionectomy procedure itself results in trauma to the toe joint capsule and surrounding soft tissue. Compared with bones, soft tissue is slow to remodel, which is why full recovery extends beyond the initial healing.
Figure 5. The additional forefoot flexibility has helped the author get back to favorite activities like yoga.
Toe joint mobility wasn’t something my podiatrist and I discussed in great detail during those early appointments, but it is a helpful conversation to have, if not early on, at least after the first critical six to eight weeks have passed. In my last and final appointment with my podiatrist, he explained that by six months, the flexibility in my toe should be “good to very good,” and that by a year, things should finally “look and feel normal.”
In my case, a month of physical therapy to mobilize the joint capsule has helped me regain some of that lost flexibility. My podiatrist did not initially discuss therapy as part of the longer-term recovery strategy, but I requested the referral because I was afraid that, without it, my foot would forever be stiff and inflexible, an unwelcome scenario given my level of activity.
My podiatrist and I were impressed with the results. After four visits, supported by a handful of home exercises to force greater joint mobility and break up scar tissue, I’ve achieved measurable improvement. From the first therapy session to the last, the flexion of my toe increased from 10° to 30°, and the extension from 52° to 70°.
Would it be enough for a ballerina on pointe shoes? Probably not, but for me, it’s what I need to finally kick up my heels and do the things I’m used to doing.
Karen Bakar is a freelance writer in the San Francisco Bay Area.
This was helpful for me to read. I just finished my 3rd week post bunion and hammertoe surgery. I have to remind myself that every day is better than the day before and stop looking at how long the road is ahead of me. I’m someone that never stops moving, that has been the biggest challenge for me. I’m assuming you didn’t have the hammertoe issue. I have a metal pin through my second toe into my foot. I get it removed in 2 days, I can’t wait and yet dread it too. I have a permanent screw in my big toe. I’ve documented every step with pics for anyone who wants to know what to expect. A pic is worth a thousand words for sure.
I loved your article on your bunionectomy! I am in my 4th week and everything you said is what I’m experiencing. I know someone who was driving at three weeks after her surgery. I don’t know if it’s different because I also had hammertoe surgery in my two smallest toes, but I couldn’t drive right now if I wanted to. My bones are healing well, but my foot is so sore and still swells up. It was nice to hear that other people are having similar exoeriences. The sitting with my foot up is getting boring! I go back to work next week and get two weeks of desk work. I hope that will be enough! Again, thanks for sharing your experience. I feel better about mine.
Julie, I am just reading this a year and a half after you wrote it. I am three weeks out from my bunion and hammer toe surgery. I had the pin and stitches removed at two week’s post surgery. I too was looking forward to getting the pin out, although dreading it. A day or two after the removal of the pin and stitches I started having severe pain, unlike any I had previously had. Doctor had me come back in for an ex ray and a blood count to rule out infection. Both tests came back ok and he told me sometimes the nerves become irritated after surgery. I think it was the removal of the pin that set it off. I had to refill my pain pills and double up on the dosage to get through it. Today is the second full day without pain pills. See the doctor next week which will be 4 weeks from surgery. I would love to hear from you about your recovery experience.
Thank you for this article. I am realizing , 6 weeks out from my big toe surgery, that it may be several months to full recovery. I had thought I may be able to ski this winter, but the thought of getting in to ski boot even 2,months from now, is excruciating. Will be working on flexibility.
Thanks for sharing this informational piece. Two weeks tomorrow post bunionectomy for me. I felt very little pain after surgery and have been able to walk very carefully and for short trips between rooms in my home on my heel and side with the boot given to me by my doctor. Your advice for physical therapy is something I will also follow.
Thanks for this, it made me feel more hopeful that I might get back to normal soon. I am 7 weeks in recovery – wondering how long it was before you were able to do yoga again? I really miss it, but can’t imagine my feet coping with it any time soon 🙁 Also if you had any tips as to what kind of shoes you found comfiest (trainers?) would be much appreciated.
all the best.
Physical therapy (early) to regain toe flexion, joint mobility, balance, strength and improve gait after years of walking improperly are key in my opinion. I had Cartiva in September on my left big toe and went back this week to do the bunion on the right. The PT made all the difference to fast recovery and gave me a good start after the recent bunionectomy surgery has healed enough to begin again. I will start seated toe flexion as soon as the dressings are off!
Very helpful! I’m 3 months post op and starting to become frustrated and worried I’m not healing like I should be. Physio therapy has helped me tremendously as well, and i plan on continuing. I just need to find those perfect comfy shoes!!!
Sigh of relief!
I have a friend that has pretty bad bunions and is likely going to need surgery for them soon. I like your point about finding out the specifics about recovery exercises and treatments. If he is going to have to have an exercise routine, then I agree setting a specific goal would be helpful.
Thank you for writing this article, it has eased my fears about getting surgery for my increasingly painful right foot. If you don’t mind, I have a couple of questions. What type of surgery did you get? My surgeon is recommending a “Lapidus Fusion.” I have a moderate bunion and a hypermobile big toe. It is also causing neuromas along my smaller toes. In addition, I have longer second toe that gets stubbed when I go for long runs. I’ve only made up my mind about going through this (preferably in Jan18), so I may need to address those issues at the same time as well.
I am also very active (run and hi intensity workouts 6x a week) and this has limited how far my runs can go. I had orthotics made, but they have stopped helping and I can’t wear them with normal shoes. Do you still have to wear orthotics in your sneakers after the surgery?
I don’t know if you have to do the other foot, but I will have to get the left done as well. I’m trying to decide if I should do it 8-10 weeks after the first surgery or wait until the right foot is fully healed. On one hand, I want to maximize the healing of each foot as much as possible, but on the other hand, I want to start moving forward with both feet done behind me. What would you suggest?
Again, thank you for posting your experience. I look forward to your response.
Appreciate the detail provided here. I am into my 9th week now. I’ve been taking short walks on my days off from work.
kind of weird after being in that dang sandal for so long!
I feel pretty good about my progress but, I am concerned that I may not be doing enough to exercise the toe area.
Q.. How far along into your recovery were you when you started the physical therapy? I may write to my doc and ask for a referral.
Thank you…well written!
Grey Chapman
I had a bunionectomy and hammer toe pin put in 4 weeks ago today. The pin was taken out today which wasn’t pleasant but it didn’t take very long. I am now allowed to walk around indoors gently without my boot on but this seems much more painful than when I was walking around with the boot and practically pain free! I’m hoping that this will get better soon! I was told that the boot is only needed for another 2 weeks which is when I’ll go back to work. I haven’t tried to put a shoe on it yet!!
Hi Karen, I realize your post is five years old, but I just came across it. I had bunion surgery three months ago, my metatarsal was only 70% healed as of two weeks ago, I just recently was able to get out of the boot again and start wearing shoes. My question for you is what type of physical therapy exercises did you do in order to achieve better range of motion in in your big toe. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated, if you’re still out there.
Thank you so much. Denise S.
Hi Karen! This is a great article. I am 12 weeks post op and never imagined how the recovery would be. I had everything you mentioned here. When I went for a consult, all I heard was “sneakers 2 weeks post op”. Never did I think I would have to learn to walk again, that my toe would be so stiff, that I would not fit into any of my shoes! I too, insisted on physical therapy. That is my only hope of getting to do planks and yoga as actively as I did before the surgery. xo
I really wish I was lucky enough to not have a lot of pain with my bunionectomy. I had mine Nov 8th and it was terrible. I had no help though. I had to get up for my own ice packs and I had to make my own meals. I had some prepared ahead but i do have a young son in the house who eats too. It’s been 10 weeks and been in theropy 6 weeks. I’m still out of work because my job is in a automobile factory and there is no slowing down that line runs and the jobs are heavy. The walk to my job from my vehicle is a good 1/2 mile because the size of the lot and factory is huge. I see myself off at least 4 months. I just cant see how ppl think it wasnt painful. I think they are tell a fib. My recovery was worse than my recovery from a c section as far as pain. And I have a pretty good tolerance.
Very informative and helpful article. I had bunion and hammertoe surgery on January 11th. I still have a temp wire on my second toe. That will be removed on 2 weeks. I was given a boot to wear 2-1/2 weeks after surgery and still keep foot wrapped in a compression wrap and second toe taped. I am able to take small walks without a crutch in the home but mainly get around with one crutch. Lately the pain is moderate to severe at night. I have been experiencing some burning and shooting pain in toes. I am scared that this will be permanent. Doc says it’s due to swelling and told me to continue to ice and keep elevated and take 600 milligrams of ibuprofen twice daily. I am very active and my job requires me to be on my feet all day long. I am not scheduled to return to work until April. I have also been doing toe stretching exercises in the big toe, but not toe with wire. Any advice or thoughts on this pain at night would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Karen,
Thanks for your article describing your experience with recovery. I am about 8 weeks post-op and still having swelling issues. I was worried that something was wrong although my dr assures me I’m on schedule. I, too, was unprepared for the length of recovery. I knew the first month would be there worst but didn’t think about the pain from swelling would last so long. Also like you I use dance and yoga for exercise and fun. So it’s killing me not being to dance daily but I’m trying to follow the rules. I’m hoping that by the end of the next month, I can return to partial workouts. Thanks for the suggestion of seeing a physical therapist to get back the mobility of my toe. It’s gotten better but still much to go.
Sounds like it will be 6mo to a year for full recovery. Such a long time but I was in daily pain before so had to do it. But trying not to get down due to the lack of mobility.
Thanks again.
It’s been 7 weeks since my bunionectomy and hammer toe surgery. Oh yeah and a neuroma at the same time. I have permanent pins on my big toe and a permanent screw in my middle toe. After 7 weeks I still have no mobility in my big toe and tingling and burning on my middle toe. My foot looks like a small watermelon with all of the swelling. I’m still not driving or walking without a boot. I start therapy tomorrow. I need to be better in 4 more weeks. I’m a school teacher and I spent the entire summer not being able to walk.
6 weeks into my recovery. Here is what I learned: If it’s your right foot, learn to drive with the left if legal in your state. Practice A LOT before surgery. Otherwise the isolation and having to depend on others becomes difficult. 2nd, get a knee scooter! A life saver as it allowed me mobility. Crutches suck and are hard to use, especially for us over the age of 50. And last, if you had a cast put on (my bunionectomy was complicated) don’t be shocked, when it comes off, to see your skin flake and peel off in masses! It’s normal.
Hi Karen
Your article really helped me. I had this surgery as Well as hammer toe surgery so he did both. It’s been going on 3 weeks now and 8 am in a soft black shoe like you had and he told me to get a bunion splint . I believe he said I can wear it at night. Did you have to wear this splint and if so when did you wear it? I still have my bandage on and going to remove it when I put the splint on. I have to call him tomorrow because I was unsure if I was to wrap the foot during the day or just wear the shoe with no wrapping during the day and the splint at night. I only have pain when walking but I do walk on my heel and out the shoe on when I go out. Did you wear the shoe during the day while at home? Thanks so much for your article. Hope you are all better now.
Thank you so much for your story about your experience. It was very helpful.
I had metatarsal surgery on my second toe and a bunionectomy on my left foot on July 30th – a couple days over 4 weeks ago.
I had two screws put in my big toe. I had a great deal of pain the first 2 weeks, but keeping it iced and elevated is crucial! That really helped me manage the pain. I have a knee scooter that helped me from room to room for the first 2 weeks and then I found I could walk between rooms. I still use the knee scooter outside of the house, and foresee that for at least another week. I also have heard that it’s a good 6 mos before things are truly back to normal.
I am wondering if the Go Skeechers would be a good transition shoe since it doesn’t have the laces on it pressing up against the incision scar. I have Uggs, but I live in Texas and I’m sure that would get rather warm.
Thanks for the advice on the PT – I will be sure to do that.
Hello, I’m 12 weeks post op, still having numbness tingling stiffness to my big toe and second toe. Like most people on this feed, I had big plans of a fast recovery since I’m only in my 40s and with a previously very active lifestyle- loved to do exercises and hikes. I’m able to drive now and pick up my kids from school and do housework, haven’t gone back to work since I have to be on my feet at work all day. I still can’t fit into my regular shoes. There’s still some swelling left but more the feeling of puffiness. I have no flexibility or mobility to my toes yet. My toes still feel unstable and weak to do planks. I can’t even run yet. My surgeon never recommended physical therapy so I’m thankful for what you’ve written and for everyone who shared their experiences. I will definitely ask for physical therapy at our next appt.
I’m 3 weeks post surgery. Got the stitches out.
Haven’t slept properly since the surgery, I’m waking up every night at least 3-4 times.
I have these terribly vile looking blisters on my foot and thank god the doc ruled out infection. Apparently I got an allergic reaction to the tape on the incisions after he removed the stitches.
Pain pretty much subsided after the first 10 days but I’d say at this point, it’s more of a interval pain where it comes and goes. Each time the pain is a little different.
I’m only 21 years old and the doc said I had the most developed bunion he’s ever worked with, so I assume I’ll be having the most developed pain and discomfort. I have another bunion on my left foot and I’m seriously reconsidering taking care of it and it’ll definitely be my last resort.
Honestly it’s nice reading all your comments, knowing I ain’t alone in this bunion world.
It’s pretty depressing honestly. When you’re super active and love to be out of the house, this surgery will definitely give you a taste of immobility. I’m reading all your comments and many of you are saying full recovery should take 6 months??
I was under the impression 2 months post op I’ll be back to normal.
I’m 16 days out, and having a hard time, though I think it’s easy compared to a lot of what I’ve heard about. The first four or five days, I did need pain meds. I made it through natural childbirth at home with a baby coming chin-first, and through three dry sockets when I had my window teeth removed (nursing my baby was my priority), but needed oxytocin after this. As someone who so rarely takes even Tylenol that it’s pointless to keep on hand since it’ll expire instead of get used, it takes a lot for me to use any pain meds, much less a narcotic or opiate. I’ve always sucked it up, so not being able to do so this time was kind of a big thing. However, the pain is nearly entirely gone now.
There’s almost no swelling left. Astonishingly little. I’ve been driving since day 11, and nixed the crutches after day 3 because they annoyed me. I’m going down the stairs in my house sideways.
But my toe is so incredibly stiff that there’s serious doubt I’ll able to return to ballet. The pain was unbearable at times, causing me to have to skip days going out in Paris as well as miss ballet classes there, so it really needed to be done, but the loss of something that is as vital to me as oxygen has my anxiety through the roof and my depression hard to handle. I had a cheilectomy on my right foot, and about half my range of motion back already. But my left side is so stiff that I wish I’d just kept the pain.
Also, before surgery, PT was already part of the plan. It won’t start until after x-rays in another 11 days to check on bone-healing.
I appreciate all the information posted. I was planning on bunion removal in two weeks but am going to postpone now because I don’t think I can do this alone. I live alone and have to giant dogs. Additionally, I really thought I would be able to go back to work in one week and also drive because it is my left foot. My doctor said the situation would be assessed in one week post op however after reading about everyone’s experience, I believe that I will need at least two weeks off work and to expect very low mobility. I am shocked about the recovery time and am not looking forward to the down time as I can’t sit still for more than 10 minutes!
This has been such a helpful article. I am having surgery first week of December, as i will be off school until end of January. I wish i’d done some research early, so I could have had questions prepared for my surgeon on Wednesday. My biggest fear is that I have to keep moving as treat emend for my Rheumatoid Arthritis & all that time of rest could be detrimental. I walk & do yoga every day, so that will be a huge change.
I love reading the stories! I’m 3 months post op bunionectomy and hammertoe repair. I had mine June 3 and was in a cast from the knee down for 9 weeks. My leg shrunk somewhat but is slowly looking more normal. I was excited to progress to a walking boot. I still can’t wear many shoes and have found the Birkenstock’s to be my best friend! There’s still moderate swelling towards the end of the day and my foot turns a reddish purple color when it dangles too long. I really didn’t have a lot of pain but I followed the dr orders to the tee. I am looking forward to having my other one done next year. It feels so good to have a straight foot again!
Thanks for the article! I’m almost 3 months post op! I had a bunionectomy, my metatarsal joint fused to big toe to help my alignment, 3 toes straitened & shortened! Major surgery & went back to work after 6 weeks. I’m in retail in a high end fashion boutique so I basically walk 8 hours all day every day! Had to wear a boot to deal with pain in the beginning & now walking in a fashion sneaker. I can barely last the whole day w/o pain but continue to push forward. . Not sure if I’m overdoing it but have no choice. I did physical therapy in the beginning but got so busy at work I stopped. Just too exhausted to do it all! Flexibility is an issue and lasting a full 8 hours in a normal shoe without pain. I will be curious to see what my dr says tmrw. It’s my 3 mo post op appt. This surgery is a long recovery and just need to tell myself it takes time. Good luck to all & glad I did it! When I get frustrated I pull out my before & after X-rays & that says it all! Dramatic difference!??
Wonderful and empowering! So good to read your recovery experience, thanks for sharing it up here! Many people suffer from foot issues and undergo surgeries for the same. They all have to spend the rest of their lives hunting for shoes that suit their foot sensitivities. Indeed, having orthotic shoes is a blessing, you get them for almost every foot condition…thanks to recent advancements in science.
I love all of these comments. I am scheduled for a bi-lateral bunionectomy on Nov 26th. I am nervous about the recovery time and I can’t find too much information on having both of them done at the same time. Would I be able to return to work after the holidays? I would wear the two boots and walk on my heels. My husband is an orthotist, and he suggested a boot that takes a little more pressure off of my toes. The doctor agreed. I could return to walking to work (4 miles total per day) in approx four months.
Has anyone had an experience with a bilateral bunionectomy? Pain level? BTW- my orthopedist is very reputable and top in his game, and he usually doesn’t recommend this to all but thinks I would do just fine. I am 67 years old.
Great read. Two weeks since surgery. Pain and swelling minimized by keeping foot elevated. Can walk with boot. See doctor in two weeks for xrays to check healing. Until then I’ll follow doctors orders and catch up on my reading. I’m 57 and wonder if age will affect my rate of healing. Making sure I eat healthy foods and drink lots of water…don’t want to gain weight while being immobile. Guess I won’t be able to wear boots this season but I’m in the south so sneaks will be my go to all winter or Uggs as you suggested.
Hi Leanne…..I had my McBride procedure with osteotomy done July 18 and have a permanent screw in my metatarsal bone on top of my foot. It has now been 10 weeks and at 6 weeks my bone (s) were 85% healed. I have little to no swelling in my foot or where the 2 “ scar is but am increasingly worried about the residual pain in my big toe joint when I walk and it bends. Pretty constant now. It is moving well ( prior to surgery it did not move) but I can only wear platform sandals so it doesn’t bend when I walk. My surgeon says to have patience, it will take 1 year for full recovery and healing. Thxs to this article I am going to get into therapy….I have not been able to resume any exercise and I feel slow as a turtle.
Thanks for this great article! Your mirror what I’m struggling with… having “protected the bones” during the initial healing and then “thinking” I was in the clear. I am a 8 weeks and was given the clear to do modified workouts (no high intensity, as well as no lunges (which I get, due to the toe flexion, but also no squats because of the force on the foot) At 12 weeks I’ve been given the clear to “do anything I want” But as I look at my peeps doing our group fitness cardio/strength classes.. I can’t imagine in 4 weeks I’ll be doing mountain climbers and jumping lunges! We will see.. So I am walking briskly, and biking (but not spinning.. I was told that was a no-no during this period), and lifting for upper body. And I have to assume it’s the walking and biking and I am AMAZED how swollen my foot is later in the day. It’s like a puffer fish! But my goal was if I had surgery in August, I’l be ready to ski in Dec. And I’m still on schedule for that!
My mom had a bunionectomy and hammer toe surgery in April 2019. She is 84 years old and in very good shape! The surgery was very painful for her and would not recommend it for a older person. She was in a terrible amount of pain for the first couple of weeks and then it was starting to get better. By the third month she was able to walk on her foot without a walker and was doing great, then 4 months after the surgery the top of her foot got really swollen and red and she contacted the doctor and was told to come in the next day. The next day there was a dark spot on the top of her foot about the size of a dime and I was sure it was a staff infection. She was sent back to the hospital for surgery the next day, they had to remove the plate and screws because of the infection and it was staff. She has had to start the recovery over again and it’s been hard. She had to have six weeks of antiotics through a picc line twice a day. It’s been seven weeks now and she is doing much better and walking some with no help but wearing the boot, the incision is healing slowly. It’s been a long road and hopefully she will heal completely and get back to normal soon.
Three weeks tomorrow for me, and although right now it feels like a lifetime, I pull off the sock and see straight toes and I marvel at this miracle! It is worth it, totally, and I will have the other foot done as soon as my podiatrist gives the green light. At my 2 week checkup I asked if I could start moving toes and foot, and she said I could rotate my ankle carefully and gently pull the big toe back and forth. I’ve elevated, iced, taken meds as directed and I see her again in three weeks. My only regret is that I waited so long to have surgery; I’ve struggled with fitting shoes without pain and sleeping with my feet hanging over the edge of the bed for 30+ years. Now my life circumstances allow for the healing time (retired). I miss yoga, fitness classes, long daily walks, all intended to help me be at my healthiest for the years ahead. I will have a PT conversation with her at my next appointment. She performed an Austin bunionectomy and Tailers bunionectomy with ostectomy. Oh, and I’m 68! Stay strong!
All of these entries were very interesting to read. I am not quite 3 weeks post bunionectomy with screw placement and 3 hammertoes corrected and two pins. I was feeling pretty low because I was not progressing fast enough–the pins limit a lot of physical activity and are painful as well. What it boils down to is that this is a major surgery and I’m not going to push too hard because I certainly do not want to have to have more surgery. Sleep is still hard because of the pins and I usually fall asleep from exhaustion after tossing and turning trying to find a comfortable position. So glad to be this far out from the surgery–don’t think I would do it again.
I had a bunionectomy in2013, and it went well and big toe finally became more flexible. I just did my right foot 3 days ago, and like the first time, didn’t need any prescribed pain medication after the 2nd day. I have 2 screws in each foot now. What hurts the most is the swelling, but I am able to control most of it but using lots of ice and keeping it elevated. I am usually very active, walking 3 miles every day with my year old German Shepherd. I seem to have more swelling than the first time…not sure why. I am older (68) and wonder if that is why. I knew in high school I would eventually need bunion surgery; I have my grandma’s feet. I have worn flats since my early 30’s, and been careful in shoe selection. But reached a point where it needed to be done. I appreciate all the suggestions, and yes, I did practice driving left footed a month ago. The hard part when having a right footed bunion surgery is finding a vehicle without a center console. Pick ups still come with bench seats, but cars don’t anymore. I expect to wear my boot for 6 weeks. I am glad they didn’t give me crutches….would have hurt myself with those. Thanks for this blog. I know I need to be patient….but it isn’t my nature. My husband is great and very helpful, and loves walking my dog for me. I think it gives him a break. Those of you with kids at home…yikes…resist the urge to help everyone else. It’s your time to heal.
Hi I’m in Australia and 4 weeks after having both feet done. No pain but I started walking with the sandals provided by doctor after 10 days. Had to elevate my feet continuously for that 10 days. Drove after 3 weeks, not a problem. Still find they ache when I walk and I cannot walk comfortably if I put my toes on the ground. Ugg boots are my saviour footwear too but my feet get hot. Don’t have pins removed and had dissolving stitches. Wound has healed well but still a bit of swelling. I am looking forward to walking normally and luckily we are coming into summer so sandals will be the go. Thank you for this very helpful article.
Very good article. I am 4 weeks post surgery from bunion surgery and toe straightening. I had three deformities in my big toe to fix so I have a lot of permanent hardware inside my toe. I have experienced most of the things all of you have had. The pain the first few weeks was less than I expected, using the prescription meds I was given for about a week. After that Advil works very well for me. Only having to use sporadically when needed. I wear a boot which I have to wear for 8 weeks. My foot swells quite a bit when I put my foot down to walk. I still use one crutch for support. I spend a lot of my day with my foot propped up and icing seems to help. The worst thing for me is the lack of activity. I was very active before all this. Love to walk, golf, ride my bike and in general be outside tending to my flowers. My other foot is almost as bad and my surgeon suggests that I have it done too in about a year. At this point I don’t know if I will or not. It all depends on how long this foot takes to heal and whether I’m pain free getting back to what I love to do.
I had bunion surgery and toe fusion 4 weeks ago,I was put in a foot cast and given a wedge boot,I could not get on with crutches as I have rhematoid arthritis and too much pressure on hands,I got about walking on heel from day 1 and went out for Meal on day 3( someone picked me up.) It has not been as bad as I thought I live alone and have been doing housework meals etc.ordered shopping online.Its just the boredom not been able to drive or go anywhere unless someone takes you.
I had cast of after 2 weeks then new one put on and x-ray.my toe was lovely and straight.2 weeks Thursday I have cast removed for good(,I hope.)was told 6 to 8 weeks.
So really it is just the boredom with me,as my husband passed away last year it has made it harder.
Had both bunions done at the same time plus a small bunion on small toe plus fixed a hammertoe.I have very good flexibility in the big toes.I am at 3 weeks post op.Walk with orthopedic sandles and compression bands on both feet.I get tired easily so I elevate my feet a lot and ice them.Recovery is confining.Not a lot of pain more aches on my feet.
Hi all,
This is so helpful. I had a right bunionectomy a week ago. My big toe was rubbing against the next toe & becoming irritating. My doc said I could lightly walk on it (in a boot) right away after surgery w crutches…uhm that was a mistake. My first nite was horrendous pain… Probably stepping on it after surgery didn’t help. The oxy made me nauseous & finally vomited at 6AM. Worse pain than my 2 natural childbirths! Almost went to ER. After that & following 5 days just took ibuprofin & had very little pain. KIND OF ODD. Can put half weight on foot at heel a week out . Would def recommend a wheelchair or knee scooter-so easier to get around! I’m 63 & crutches in the middle of nite to go to bathroom are just too tough. Live in a ranch house so that helps a lot. I was happy my hubby was around for first 3 days!
I thought I would be skiing and playing tennis in February -but not likely!
Happy to read everyone’s account of their surgery. I had bunionectomy and hammertoe correction 11 days ago and I am still in a cast with wedge boot and pin sticking out of my 2nd toe. The pain is not as bad as I thought it would be, mostly throbbing if I am up on it for very long and I managed with the prescribed codeine for the first 4 days and switched to OTC pain relievers after that. I invested in a walker and had a raised toilet seat (from a previous torn meniscus issue) which were both lifesavers. Also hubby had a back issues and we had an elevated shower seat that was also handy for taking showers. My biggest fear was having my curious cats rub up against my pin which did not happen until today when I went outside to sit in the sunshine… Yowsa! It hurt but after elevating it again, I’m good. I’m 56 and not too proud to use the walker. I could use crutches, but still worried about hitting the pin in my toe. My biggest fear now is not knowing when I can go back to work. I am currently working from home as much as I cane with laptop / phone. The parking lot is a long way from the entrance to my office area and the thought of that walk on crutches or with a walker is scary. I haven’t come up with a solution yet, but a wheelchair would be great. I am so lucky to have a hubby that works at home and is willing to drive me to and from work when I do go back. I am really looking forward to taking long walks / hikes again and getting rid of the weight that I put on while dealing with this issue as well as palntar fasciitis which I had TOPAZ surgery for back in March! Hoping for a much better year in 2020. 🙂
Hi to all Honey Bunions… I also had Bunion/Hammertoe surgery 5 days ago. It was long over due and finally ran out of excuses and option… I had 5 screws, 1 pin(hammertoe), a plate and fusion… Also in a non weight baring cast that feels like it was made with led not plaster!!! After the first 2 days I stopped all pain meds prescribed by my Dr. and only taking Advil for the swelling and Tylenol for the pain… Rented a knee scooter for cruising around the house which has been my BFF!!! Only problem I have with it is forgetting to put on the parking breaks!!! Lol!!! ;)) At least I won’t have to worry about running out of gas!!! Having my first cast change tomorrow and hoping cast #2 will not be as tight… I’m a true believer in positive thinking and staying as healthy as possible no matter what surgery you go through… I’m so glad its over so I can move forward… Literally!!!
I am 27 yrs old and am on the better half of week 5 of bi-lateral bunionectomy. They are hereditary in my family and my left foot was extremely worse than the right. The surgery was Sept 18th and today is October 26th… It has been the hardest experience of my life.
Immediately after surgery the nurse was helping me walk “heal-bearing”, a very short distance to the bath room. I have used a wheel chair through out this experience, which i am currently still using. Im really hoping this Wednesday i will be able to start putting pressure on my right foot and can possible use crutches. I am currently still elevating my left foot for the majority of the day.
Week 4 post-op my left foot showed two areas of the wound that had slightly reopened, no infection but i am currently taking antibiotics just incase. Im pretty sure this is due to me putting more weight on my foot than perscribes ( ex. trying to decorate for Halloween.) I am really kicking myself in the butt now and thinking of canceling my Halloween party.
I do not have any expectations at this point, except to have an optimistic attitude the best i can. It was nice to read this and know some day ill be back at work, and to expect some swelling. I truly recommend the surgery, and my pain is way less than before. Good luck to anyone who is getting this done or has to live with the burden of bunions!
I am ever amazed at how many of us are out there! Closet bunnion buddies!
I have referred three friends to my podiatrist for Lapiplasty and I am six months post op on my left and four months out on right. Very little pain at all and in walking boot day one both feet! Xrays past Monday showed bones all healed and free to do anything I want except no ballet toe dancing and no yoga poses that bend my fused big toes. Walking, running, dancing and biking are all permitted. Hoka One one sneakers come in a wide with for comfort to my previously Narrow size feet with an increse in minimal half size beyond my previous 7.5, now size 8. Swelling is minimal now but annoying with tingling numbness. Dr says it may be a year for nerve endings to knit and heal completely. Birkenstocks are my new nerdy favorites with sherling lining and bright colors. Uggs are a godsend for Winter. Dansko is the closest I can find for a dress shoe. I so want to find a beautiful sleek kitten heel for a christmas party dress. Its not all about fashion! My feet are straight and not deformed. I love my feet now! And no pain! I tire easy and must elevate and nap daily. But no sleepless painful nights. Im so glad I found Lapiplasty in my area!
Oh, for swelling and relief I have discovered Dr Teals Epsom Salts baths! So soothing! Aleve at night helps relieve swelling. No salt diet and increase celery and cucumbers in salads with salmon three times weekly.
Both feet at once sounds insane to me! Patience! Give yourself this gift of time to heal for a lifetime of new feet!
I had bunion fusion on my right foot in November of 2018 and just did the left foot in September 2019. I would not have done the left foot if the right foot had not been so worthwhile. The hard part for me was being inactive and unable to drive for 8 weeks. The recent (2019) surgery was easier because I could drive after two weeks (once I was cleared to put weight on the left foot while in the boot). One thing I have noticed is recovery from the second surgery is moving along faster than the first by about two weeks. I took pain meds for 4 days the first time and 3 days this time. I do Tylenol only occasionally now but nothing else. The only difference in my second surgery was I had 2 pins inserted in my little toe for 5 weeks. This creeped me out. I cannot say it was painful but it was difficult psychologically. It’s hard to explain. It didn’t really hurt, but they stick out of your toe so obviously. I didn’t like that at all. I cannot say how great it was to get those things removed last week. I still elevate and ice my foot when I’m sitting down, but I’m more active now. I’m very happy I’ve now done both feet because I’m 60 and I don’t want to deal with foot issues as I age. As others have said, this was easier because I did both feet after I retired. If you are younger, though, please don’t put this off. My doctor told me I should have done this at least 10 years ago. I didn’t do it because I was working my ‘important job’ and had no time. Yes, you can do this at 60 but if you are thinking about it at 50, do it sooner rather than later.