What To Expect After Bunion Surgery

Ask people who’ve undergone bunion surgery and many will tell you that it was a life-changing experience. Bunions are common foot conditions but they can be extremely painful and may ruin your quality of life. If you suffer from bunions, you may quickly find yourself avoiding activities you love, say going for a walk in the park.

Roughly a quarter of adults aged from 18 to 65 suffer bunions. Elderly folks are even more prone to having bunions, with nearly 40 percent having them. Fortunately, bunions can be removed through surgery, which will help you live life on your own terms.

Interested in bunion surgery and living near Avon, CT? Contact Avon Podiatry Associates and speak with Dr. Richard Grayson.

Post-Bunion Surgery Care

First, you’ll want to stay off your feet as much as possible during the first few days after surgery. It’s smart to take a few days off work. It’s also wise to use a cane or walker when possible to ease pressure on your feet.

You’ll likely experience some swelling after the surgery. This is normal, but if the swelling seems abnormal, you may want to seek advice. You can use ice packs to provide relief and reduce swelling. If the swelling is not clearing up after 5 days, it’s smart to contact a doctor.

You should also keep an eye out for infection. If you have a fever or chills, it could be due to an infection related to the surgery. If your foot feels especially hot or you notice pus, it’s time to get in touch with a podiatrist. If you have contracted an infection, it’ll likely spread. Infections are relatively rare after bunion surgery. However, if an infection does crop up, best to treat it immediately.

Recovering from bunion surgery and living near Avon, CT? Contact Avon Podiatry Associates to speak with Dr. Richard Grayson about recovery.

Later Stage Recovery

After two to three weeks, sutures will be removed. The swelling should have gone down considerably, and your doctor will let you know when it’s okay to start wearing shoes again. Most people will be able to wear shoes by six weeks after surgery. Others may need a few more weeks.

During this time, it’s smart to continue to use a cane or walker to ease pressure on your feet. High heels and other shoes that could strain your feet should be avoided. Also, you’ll want to test driving to make sure that you can use the brakes. Your feet may simply be too sore to effectively use breaks. If so, your driving could endanger you and others.

Residents who live in or near Avon, CT should reach out to Avon Podiatry Associates to speak with Dr. Richard Grayson by dialing (860) 677-7733.