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.

I just joined the group this week and have been reading all

From Plantar Fasciitis Talk and Tips

I just joined the group this week and have been reading all the tips. I started using a tennis ball, doing the stretches and massage yesterday and today I am in even more pain. Before that it was concentrated to my heel, but today my arch is killing me. Is this normal? Or Did I over due it? Should I do those things again today? Or take a day off? All reactions:

orthotic orthotics physical therapy ice therapy cortisone injection icing stretching massage

Comments (3)

View more answers Melissa Hemmens Just give it a couple days it’ll heal, but yeah, give it a break for sure. I’ve gently scraped my heel when it hurts, and it will release the tight facia

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Alicia Stewart I have went to the podiatrist i got cortisone shots in my foot .I did physical therapy the doctor did the tapeing of my foot I even brought multiple shoes and I have the orthotics with all that I still was hurting bad even icing just when I think it's healed the pain comes back but it seems like it's alot better but I still struggle with it

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Answer as Justin

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