How Do You Recover From A Bunionectomy?
A bunion is a painful protrusion that can develop on your big toe joint. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly and arthritis in the feet are two of the most common causes of bunions. Orthotics and comfortable footwear can help prevent bunion pain from interfering with everyday activities, but sometimes these steps are not enough. Surgical removal of bunions, called a bunionectomy, may be performed to relieve a person from severe pain. Recovery may take from several weeks up to six months, depending on the severity of the problem. Elevate your foot as much as possible during the first week post-surgery. Elevation (on a stack of pillows, for example) helps keep swelling to a minimum in the early stages of recovery. Apply ice packs to your foot as directed by your doctor. Usually ice packs can be used up to three times each day to keep both pain and swelling under control. Keep the medical dressing on your foot while you ice the affected area. Take pain medication to relieve some of the