When should I start physical therapy after bunion surgery?

Most surgeons recommend starting physical therapy 3-4 weeks after surgery, once initial wound healing has progressed. However, gentle range-of-motion exercises may be encouraged even before formal PT. Always follow your surgeon's specific protocol before starting PT.

What exercises help recover faster from bunion surgery?

Common PT exercises include: toe flexion and extension, ankle pumps, gentle calf stretches, toe spreads using a towel, walking progressions, balance exercises, and intrinsic foot muscle strengthening. The specific exercises depend on the recovery phase and your surgeon's recommendations.

How long does physical therapy last after bunion surgery?

Most patients do PT for 4-8 weeks, with 2-3 sessions per week. However, the full recovery period is longer, and self-directed exercises should continue for several months. Some patients benefit from longer PT if they have stiffness or balance issues.

Do I need to do exercises at home after physical therapy?

Yes. Home exercise compliance is crucial for optimal recovery. Most PTs provide a home exercise program that should be done daily or several times per week. Consistent home exercises often determine the difference between good and excellent outcomes.

Hi, had a little bumb on left foot for a while and the right

From Forefoot Forum

Hi, had a little bumb on left foot for a while and the right one popped a year ago. I Didnt know anything about bunnions before that. But now its extreme, noe shoes fit. Pain is horrible. Got some hoka wide shoes but even they hurt after a while. Any info on shoes i can try would be apretiated. Also its seems like there is alot of inflamation going on inside, has anyone tried cortison injections? Im so limited by this condition. Any other tips?

Hoka Crocs surgery

Comments (2)

I have the same issue! Plus I have a Morton’s Neuroma (nerve impingement) I’m sure it’s from my bunion making my foot wider for the shoes I have. For the neuroma I need wide box shoes but the wide box shoes tend to hurt my bunion. So far crocs are the only thing I can wear. Looks like I may be getting the insulated kind for winter. I’m contemplating surgery.

Community member

Tailor bunion. It's so painful. The issue can also be from your hips or your gait ie the way you walk.. a good podiatrist would be able to fit a mould for your foot to separate that toe. Intermittent fasting is a great way to rid the body of inflammation . I benefit from a great chiropractor every two weeks for adjustments.

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