Bunionectomy Recovery
Definition
A bunion is the name for the large bump that occurs on the joint of the 1st or "big" toe. A bunionette is the name of the bump that can occur on the 5th or "little" toe. The toes may often drift toward the other toes of the foot (called "hallux valgus") and overlap, causing pain and possibly difficulty with shoe fit or walking. The word part "-ectomy" means removal. Orthopedic surgeons or podiatrists can do surgery to correct the foot deformity caused by bunions or hallux valgus by performing a "bunionectomy".
Mechanism of Injury
Bunions are often caused by faulty foot alignment or function, and sometimes shoe-wear can contribute to their formation. Bunionectomy surgery requires the foot to be cut open and the bones cut and realigned.
Symptoms
Immediately after surgical correction of a bunion, patients often experience post-operative pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Sometimes the leg can become weak temporarily.
Physical Therapy Intervention
Following surgery, a physical therapist works with the physician to maximize recovery. Physical therapy can help by teaching one to walk with crutches to minimize pain in the foot. When the incisions are healed, physical therapy can work with patients to decrease pain and swelling as well as restore more normal movement in the toe(s) and foot/ankle. Sometimes an orthotic (shoe insert) can help improve faulty foot alignment which may have contributed to the development of the bunion. When indicated, physical therapists may issue "over the counter" or custom made orthotics, if the physician has not done so.