Hammertoe And Bunion Surgery Recovery – If you’re considering hammertoe or bunion surgery, you’re probably wondering what the recovery process will be like. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect in the weeks and months following your surgery. Of course, every patient is different and your recovery will depend on a number of factors, including the type of surgery you had, your overall health, and how well you follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions.
In general, however, you can expect to spend a few days in the hospital after your surgery. You’ll likely have some pain and swelling in your foot, which can be controlled with medication. You’ll also need to keep your foot elevated and use ice to help reduce swelling. Once you’re home, you’ll need to continue to elevate your foot and use ice. You’ll also need to wear a special shoe or boot to keep your foot from moving too much. Most people can start putting weight on their foot after a few weeks.
Hammertoe And Bunion Surgery Recovery
Recovery from hammertoe and bunion surgery can vary depending on the specific type of surgery that was performed and the individual patient’s healing process. Here are some general guidelines to follow during your recovery:
1. Elevate your foot to reduce swelling
If you’re recovering from hammertoe or bunion surgery, you’ll likely have some swelling in your foot. To help reduce this swelling, it’s important to elevate your foot whenever you can. This can be done by propping your foot up on a pillow when you’re sitting down, or by lying down with your foot elevated on a pillow or other surface. Elevating your foot will help reduce the swelling and make your recovery process more comfortable.
2. Wear supportive shoes
One of the most important things you can do to speed your healing and reduce your risk of complications is to wear supportive shoes. Your shoes should have a wide toe box—the part of the shoe that surrounds your toes should be roomy enough so that your toes don’t rub against the sides. Look for shoes with a soft, flexible sole and avoid any that have a stiff, inflexible bottom. You may need to buy shoes a half size larger than you normally wear to make sure they’re comfortable.
3. Take prescribed medications
After surgery, you will be given a course of antibiotics to help reduce the risk of infection. Make sure you finish the whole course, even if you start to feel better. You will also be given pain relief medication. It is important to take these as prescribed so that you can stay comfortable and begin to heal.
4. Avoid strenuous activities
After hammertoe or bunion surgery, it is important to avoid strenuous activities. This means no running, jumping, or lifting heavy objects. You should also avoid high-impact activities, such as tennis or basketball. Walking is fine, but you should avoid long walks or hiking.
5. Get plenty of rest
After hammertoe and bunion surgery, it is important to get plenty of rest. This will help your body heal and reduce the risk of complications. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days or weeks, depending on the extent of your surgery. Once you are home, you will need to take it easy and not put too much stress on your feet.
6. Ice your feet regularly
Ice your feet regularly to help reduce swelling and pain. Place an ice pack on your feet for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. You can also place a frozen bag of peas or corn against your foot.
7. Follow doctor’s instructions
Most people who undergo hammertoe or bunion surgery will experience some pain and swelling after the procedure. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for managing these side effects. Typically, your doctor will prescribe pain medication and recommend that you keep your foot elevated and ice it for the first few days. You will also likely need to wear a special shoe or boot for several weeks. Following your doctor’s advice will help you recover from your surgery more quickly and reduce your risk of complications.
8. Do physical therapy exercises if recommended
If your surgeon recommends physical therapy exercises after your hammertoe or bunion surgery, it is important to follow their instructions. These exercises will help improve your range of motion and prevent stiffness in your toe joint. It is important to start these exercises as soon as possible after your surgery, and to continue doing them for as long as your surgeon recommends.
Although hammertoe and bunion surgery can be difficult to recover from, it is important to remember that the surgery is meant to improve your foot health in the long run. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and take the time you need to rest and heal. With proper care, you should be able to enjoy your new, healthy feet soon.