There are two ways to look at having surgery for bunions:

• First, you don’t want to be laid up with a long bunion surgery recovery, so a procedure should be avoided if at all possible.
• Second, you don’t want to suffer longer than necessary by putting off a surgery you’re probably going to need anyway, so let’s get it done.

If you have tried conservative treatments but your big toe is drifting farther in, the joint is jutting farther out, your bunion is red and sore, and your toe is stiff, maybe it’s time to act. We won’t downplay recovery times, but if you follow our step-by-step instructions, it could be less of an inconvenience than you think. Here’s the procedure:

Step 1 – Prepare by reading our instructions and having dressing materials on hand along with plastic wraps to keep the incision(s) dry while showering. Having help lined up, meals prepared ahead, rooms arranged, and activities set up to keep your mind occupied helps smooth the way, too.

Step 2 – Follow our recommendations for weight bearing and protective gear. Some procedures may be simpler, but for others you may need crutches for several weeks and possibly special boots or shoes even longer, so the bones are held in place and protected from stress to heal properly. Don’t skip these precautions!

Step 3 – Come in for your follow-up appointments to remove stitches or pins and get instructions for the next phase of healing—gradually starting to put some weight on the foot again.

Step 4 – Practice any physical therapy exercises we give you faithfully. These are designed to help your foot muscles grow stronger and your joint return to as normal a range of motion as possible.

The extent and type of procedure determine how long your recovery will take, but plan on a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks for initial healing, and severe cases may take up to a year before you regain full conditioning of your foot.

Remember, Parker Foot & Ankle will provide excellent care and encouragement every step of the way, and when your feet are lovely, straight, and pain free, you’ll be so glad you decided to have your bunion corrected. Call our office in Houston, TX at (281) 497-2850 to discuss your foot problem and chart a course of treatment, or simply request an appointment right now while you are on our website using our contact page.