What does it feel like to have your bunions removed? Incredibly painful according to the article in The Times today. Well it’s not if you follow advice about rest after the operation, sensible shoes and orthotics (shoe inserts that realign and support your feet). OK for the first few days after the bunion operation you might question whether you should have gone ahead with the bunion op because when you stand on your foot it will not be at all comfortable and the area will probably be very painful – so my advice is don’t stand on your foot much at this stage.
For the first couple of days after the bunion operation you will feel more comfortable lying on your bed – only get out of bed when you really have to. For about 2 weeks after the bunion operation you should sit with your feet up most of the time because this way your foot will swell less. The more you stand or walk the more your foot will swell and the more uncomfortable it will be. Over the next few weeks gradually increase the time you stand and walk. You should wear whatever shoes are most comfortable at this stage, maybe trainers slightly larger than usual because your feet will swell a bit, and take care not to have anything tight over the scar area. Carefully do any exercises that you are told to do – don’t overdo them.
You will not be able to get into normal shoes until 6-8 weeks after the operation and maybe a bit longer than this. You should never return to killer heels. You owe your feet this.
You can get some great shoes these days that are sensible but look great. Wear sensible shoes during the day and keep your high heels (absolute max 2 inches) for the odd occasion in the evening. You’ll eventually realise that ridiculously high heels are not your friend.
Not everyone will get bunions, it depends on the type of foot structure you inherit. If you inherit a particular type of foot structure and wear killer heels you are just asking for problems to happen. Look at your mother’s feet, father’s feet, your aunt and uncle’s feet, your grandparents’ feet. Do they have probems? If they do you might also develop problems. Be careful with your shoe choice. You only get one pair of feet.
 Bunion – 8 days post op. Very little swelling at this stage |
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