What can patients expect after bunion surgery? - J. Carr Vineyard, MD

Dr. J. Carr Vineyard offers a comprehensive overview of what patients can expect following bunion surgery. The post-operative care typically includes a six-week period of limited mobility, where patients are advised to walk on the heel and outer side of the foot using a walking boot or post-operative shoe. Immediate rest and elevation of the foot are crucial in the first two weeks to manage pain and swelling effectively. Dr. Vineyard emphasizes the importance of minimal activity during this initial phase, with gradual movement in a boot encouraged after two weeks, albeit with periodic rest.
Driving, especially after right-side bunion correction, poses a significant concern for many patients. Dr. Vineyard advises against driving for about six weeks until one can safely operate vehicle pedals while wearing normal shoes. Patients are expected to transition to a wide toe box tennis shoe six weeks post-surgery and gradually resume full pressure on the foot. By 10 to 12 weeks, most individuals can walk with relative comfort, experiencing only mild swelling and discomfort by day's end. Light activities, such as using an elliptical machine, golfing, low-impact walking, or light jogging, may resume around three months post-surgery. Full recovery, including a return to all normal activities and the resolution of swelling and discomfort, can take between six to twelve months.
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