Bunions are one of the most common foot deformities, affecting about one in three adults. These bony bumps form on the outside of the base of the big toe and are often caused by wearing shoes that crowd the toes, such as high heels. Over time, the pressure from these shoes causes the bones in the big toe to shift and bulge outward, leading to swelling and pain. Small bunions don’t always need treatment, but larger ones often respond best to surgery.
At South Denver Podiatry in Littleton, Colorado, our team of podiatrists specializes in bunion surgery, or bunionectomy. Read on to learn what the procedure involves and what to expect during your recovery.
Bunion surgery is usually an outpatient foot surgery that takes one or two hours. Before treatment, your surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb the area or general anesthesia, which makes you unconscious during surgery.
Some postoperative pain is normal, but it can be managed with ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and rest. Most people experience the greatest discomfort in the first few days after surgery, with pain improving steadily thereafter.
We typically prescribe a walking boot or protective cast, which helps reduce pressure on your foot and makes it easier to stand and walk while you recover.
Recovery after bunion surgery occurs in several stages. Here’s what to expect during each:
In the first two weeks after surgery, prepare to experience significant swelling and bruising, and some discomfort. It’s important to keep weight off your foot, so we typically recommend crutches, a knee scooter, or a walker to support mobility. Follow your surgeon’s recovery instructions and keep your foot elevated as much as possible.
Once most of the swelling and bruising have subsided, you return to our office to have your stitches removed. At this visit, we may recommend transitioning from crutches or a scooter to a walking boot. This allows you to start placing weight on your foot and returning to light daily activities, but some swelling and pain may still be present.
At this stage, most people return to normal activities, such as driving and running errands. You can also stop wearing the walking boot and transition to comfortable, supportive shoes instead. Most patients begin physical therapy (PT) at this time. PT involves stretches, strengthening exercises, and hands-on techniques, like massage, to restore your strength and mobility.
During this stage, you can increase your activity level. However, high-intensity exercises, like running, may still be off limits. It’s normal to experience swelling that comes and goes, but it should be far less severe than how it was immediately after surgery.
Choosing to undergo bunion surgery is a big decision, but for many people, the results are well worth it. Contact us if a bunion is affecting your mobility or quality of life. Call our Littleton, Colorado, office or book your appointment online.
