Steps To Follow For A Successful Recovery From A Bunion Surgery

A bunion forms when the bones of the big toe are moved out of place and a bony bump develops. While minor bunions can be treated by wearing special shoes or padding the affected area, severe bunions that are causing a lot of pain require surgical removal. If your podiatrist has recommended bunion surgery to correct a severe bunion on one of your feet, it is in your best interest to be prepared. Knowing what to expect can help ensure that you have a smooth recovery without any complications. Take the following steps to help you recover following your bunion surgery.

Wear Your Surgical Boot

After your bunion surgery is completed, your surgeon will place your foot in a surgical boot. It is very important to wear your boot as directed since the boot will help stabilize your foot and promote healing after your surgery. In most cases, you will be required to wear your surgical boot for several weeks after your surgery. You will need to visit your podiatrist after your bunion surgery so they can monitor your recovery — your podiatrist will let you know when you can stop wearing the surgical boot.

Avoid Bearing Weight on Your Foot

In order for your foot to heal properly after bunion surgery, you need to be careful not to bear weight on it. Prematurely bearing weight on your surgically repaired foot can be very painful and can also cause complications. Thus, while your foot is recovering, you will need to utilize crutches or a knee walker in order to get around and keep weight off of your foot. Just like the surgical boot, your podiatrist will let you know when you can start walking normally and stop using your crutches or knee walker. 

Wear the Right Shoes

Once you can remove your surgical boot and begin wearing regular shoes again, it is important to wear the right shoes. Make sure that you choose shoes that provide ample support and also have wide toe boxes so your feet are completely comfortable. You may want to consider speaking with your podiatrist about what type of shoes are best for you to buy. As you recover, you will need to completely avoid wearing high heel shoes for several months. In addition to helping with your bunion surgery recovery, wearing the right shoes can also help ensure that you don't have a recurrence that could require another surgery in the future.

For more information, contact a bunion surgeon in your area.

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