Community discussion
This is probably a dumb question, but I’m having a hard time wrapping my mind around keeping my toes above my nose for 2 1/2 weeks. Thank you to everyone that posted the ideas on the foot elevation pillow. I can see where that is a great idea. I’m thinking the only way to accomplish toes above nose is by laying flat -otherwise there’s no way I’ll have my toes above my nose.  I can’t imagine having to lay flat for 2 1/2 weeks 24/7 though. I naïvely thought that I could sit on a sofa with my feet propped up on an ottoman with a wedge pillow or something. I could see laying down flat with my head on a pillow, trying to read or watch TV starting to bother my neck over time. I’m curious how others applied this in their own lives during the daytime hours? as you can probably guess reality & panic is starting to settle in…TIA!
Archived from Bunion Surgery / Foot Surgery Support. View the original discussion on Facebook (sign-in may be required).
The visible discussion was fully captured at the time of collection.
I stayed in or on my bed for the first 2 weeks and kept my foot elevated on a wedge pillow. It wasn’t always elevated above heart level during the day, but was at night or when I was sleeping. I would move between a sitting position and a more lying down position during the day.
I didn't have my foot above my nose (2.5 weeks post op). Just kept it up as much as possible. Very little swelling.
Large fluffy pillows. But it's just elevated above the heart level to keep the swelling down. There will be comfortable positions, just have blankets and pillows wherever you are. I bought a Sleep Number bed which made my recovery a lot more comfortable with a Zero Gravity setting.
Elevated is the key. Mine was rarely "toes above the nose."
I’ve used an elevation pillow but have been on the sofa sitting up so haven’t had toes above nose and it has been fine.
I had toes above nose using an elevation wedge pillow with another pillow on top. I was on a recliner couch and reclined back a little.
I kept my toes above my nose/heart for 2 weeks except for my bathroom trips. I had an extensive surgery. I was in bed the entire time. I watched TV, read a little, made lengthy phone calls to far flung friends, cleaned up my phone. It wasn’t easy but I could see that I had no choice.
I read on a kindle (but not much because of pain meds and fatigue), which is light and easy to hold up. I also got an iPad holder that attached to my bedside table and was adjustable so I was able to move it and position it in a way that made it easier to watch tv. I’m a very active person and was blown away by how tired and in pain I was, I didn’t have trouble staying in bed.
I used our recliner with the elevation pillow. Slept in it too at night.
I did .. I had my foot up on the headboard .. I have nerve damages from my spine and foot ..
Hope you recovered well!
I am going well thanks! I had my right foot surgery 7 months ago and I’m 4 weeks post op with my left foot. Good luck with your surgery and recovery.
Which procedure are you having? There are procedures where you are walking same day in a post op shoe.
It’s not a dumb question. Not at all. I kept my feet elevated above heart level about 75% of the time for the first 3days post-op as the “toes above nose” position was really uncomfortable for me and actually caused more throbbing pain. Especially in my toes! For those who are bothered by laying in that position, doing it for about 20-30 minutes every 2-4 hours and prn (as needed) is good enough to aid in improving blood circulation, decreasing the development of blood clots and reducing swelling while laying flat. I just didn’t find it necessary for me to be completely uncomfortable all day long. Breaking it up throughout the day worked best for me. *I’m no doctor. Just stating what worked for me!*
Will be non weight bearing for 2 1/2 weeks, then a walking boot for 2 weeks.
there are other options that have you up and walking faster and less invasive.
Thank you - very helpful to know!
Community replies
17 in this archive