How painful is bunion surgery recovery?

Most patients describe the first 3-5 days as the most painful, with pain typically rated 5-7 out of 10. Pain usually becomes manageable with over-the-counter medication within 1-2 weeks. Keeping the foot elevated and icing consistently are the most effective non-medication pain management strategies.

What helps with pain after bunion surgery?

The most effective pain management approaches include: keeping the foot elevated above heart level, icing for 20 minutes every 2 hours, taking prescribed medications on schedule (not waiting for pain to build), nerve blocks during surgery for the first 24-48 hours, and gentle movement when cleared by your surgeon.

Is nerve pain normal after bunion surgery?

Some degree of nerve irritation is common after bunion surgery, presenting as tingling, numbness, or burning sensations. This usually resolves within weeks to months. Persistent nerve pain beyond 3 months should be discussed with your surgeon, as it may require medication like gabapentin or further evaluation.

How long does pain last after bunion surgery?

Acute surgical pain typically resolves within 2-3 weeks. Mild aching and discomfort with activity can persist for 2-3 months. Most patients report being pain-free or significantly improved by 4-6 months post-surgery, though this varies by procedure and individual.

Does anyone else get sharp, horrible pain in the heel as cir

From Plantar Fasciitis Talk and Tips Support Group

Does anyone else get sharp, horrible pain in the heel as circled in the photo? It's driving me bonkers. I only get pain in the arch of my foot when I've been on my feet too long, but my heel is another level

dr. scholl's cortisone cortisone injection massage physical therapy surgery

Comments (10)

Yes I definitely have pain there at times

Community member

I got my cortisol shot today, or whatever was in that needle, right here because that is where the pain is concentrated.

Community member

My pain is mostly in the heel

Community member

Yes. Its all connected to calf muscle

Community member

Could be heel spurs. That's one of issues.

Community member

My pain has always been in my heel and sometimes radiates higher up

Community member

Yep, that's where mine is. It is excruciating in the morning and painful during the day

Community member

Yes, that is the last hold out for pain for me. I have had shots, multiple rounds of PT and the tenex procedure and that is the pain that remains no matter what I do.

Community member

Yes, have had heel spurs. The only thing you can do for them is put something like Dr. Scholl half size heel pads in the heel area of your shoes.

Community member

I got professional massages after 3 rounds of cortisone shots. Tell them you have PF. Mine is gone. Lived with it for 5 years.

Community member