Post Bunion Surgery Exercises: Rehab Routine for Quick Recovery

Introduction to Post Bunion Surgery Exercises

Bunion surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, is a common procedure done to correct the misalignment of the big toe joint. It's estimated that over 200,000 bunionectomy procedures are performed in the United States each year. After having bunion surgery, it is crucial to follow your surgeon's recommended post-op exercises and physical therapy routine in order to ensure proper healing and get your foot back to full function.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of post bunion surgery exercises, when you can start exercising, types of exercises to focus on, stretching and strengthening routines, how to prevent complications, and tips for a smooth recovery. With proper rehabilitation, you can get your foot feeling and functioning normally again after a bunionectomy.

The Importance of Post Bunion Surgery Exercises

Performing physical therapy and exercises after bunion surgery serves many important purposes for recovery:

• Restores mobility and strength in the big toe and foot
• Prevents scar tissue build up and joint stiffness
• Aids the healing of soft tissues and bone
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Gets you back on your feet again quickly and safely

Your podiatric surgeon will provide a post-op protocol with guidelines on when you can start exercising, the types of activities recommended, and any restrictions. Following this properly allows your foot to heal in the correct position and prevents complications. The bunion should be adequately corrected after surgery, but only with proper rehabilitation will your strength and range of motion return.

When Can I Start Post Bunion Surgery Exercises?

Most patients will need to wait until their post-op dressings and stitches have been removed before beginning physical therapy exercises. This is typically around 2 weeks after bunionectomy surgery.

Your surgeon will assess the healing progress and give you the go-ahead to start exercises once the incision site has closed up properly. Premature mobility can disrupt the bones and soft tissues as they mend back together in the corrected position.

In the first week after surgery, exercises will be limited to simple ankle pumps, circles, and light toe wiggles to stimulate blood flow. Elevation and icing will also be important to control pain and swelling.

From 2 weeks to 6 weeks post-op, you can progress to stretching, strengthening, and gentle mobility exercises for the toe, foot, and ankle. Your podiatric surgeon will tailor the exercise routine to your specific procedure and needs.

Types of Post Bunion Surgery Exercises

The types of bunionectomy rehabilitation exercises generally focus on:

• Flexibility - Stretches for the toes, foot, ankle, and calf.
• Strength - Isometric and gentle resistance exercises.
• Mobility - Carefully bringing back range of motion.
• Gait training - Assisting your return to walking.

The exercises prescribed will depend on the surgical technique used for your bunion correction, such as an osteotomy or arthrodesis. Your physical therapist can make adjustments as needed.

Toe and Foot Stretching Exercises

After bunion surgery, scar tissue develops and can make the toes and foot stiff if not properly stretched and mobilized. Some beneficial stretches may include:

• Gently flexing and extending the toes
• Spreading the toes apart
• Moving the ankle in circles or up and down
• Stretching the Achilles tendon
• Rolling a tennis ball under the sole of the foot
• Stretching a resistance band around the foot

Strengthening Exercises

Isometric strength exercises (contracting the muscles without joint movement) are encouraged early on after bunion surgery to activate the intrinsic foot muscles. As you progress, resistance exercises with exercise bands can further build strength.

Some examples of effective foot and toe strengthening exercises:

• Towel scrunches
• Marble or ball pickups
• Rubber band flexion
• Short-arc leg raises

Range of Motion and Gait Exercises

As swelling subsides and you gain mobility of the big toe and ankle, exercises focused on regaining range of motion are appropriate. This may involve gently moving the big toe up and down or tracing letters or numbers with your foot.

Weight-bearing will typically be restricted for 1-2 weeks until initial healing occurs. Your podiatric surgeon will guide you on when it is safe to start partial weight-bearing exercises, progressing to full weight-bearing and gait training.

Sample Post Bunion Surgery Exercise Routine

Here is an example of a typical rehabilitation schedule after bunion surgery:

Weeks 1-2 Post-Op

• Elevation and icing for swelling
• Gentle ankle pumps and circles
• Light toe curls and wiggles
• Passive big toe and ankle stretches

Weeks 2-4 Post-Op

• Continue ice and elevation as needed
• Active toe flexion and extension
• Gentle foot and calf stretching
• Towel scrunches and marble pickups
• May start partial weight-bearing in boot

Weeks 4-6 Post-Op

• Progress joint mobility and stretching
• Isometric foot exercises
• Begin resistance band exercises
• Advance to full weight-bearing in shoe
• Practice gait training if permitted

Preventing Complications with Proper Exercises

While bunion surgery is highly successful in most cases, complications like recurring bunions, overcorrection, and stiffness can sometimes occur without proper rehabilitation. Doing the right foot exercises helps prevent the following complications:

• Recurrence - Stretching and strengthening prevents stiffness around the big toe joint so the bunion does not return.
• Overcorrection - Controlled range of motion protects from over-straightening the big toe.
• Stiffness - Early mobility prevents adhesion formation and scar tissue.
• Muscle atrophy - Using your foot prevents loss of strength from disuse.
• Delayed healing - Exercises improve blood flow which aids bone and soft tissue healing.

Tips for Smooth Post Bunion Surgery Recovery

Here are some additional tips to help your recovery go smoothly after a bunionectomy:

• Follow your surgeon's instructions closely, especially weight-bearing restrictions.
• Wear the post-op shoe or boot as directed to protect the foot.
• Attend all physical therapy appointments for optimal results.
• Do recommended home exercises consistently.
• Use ice, compression, and elevation to control swelling.
• Keep incisions clean and dry to prevent infection.
• Ask your doctor when you can return to normal activities.
• Be patient as healing takes time.

Conclusion

Performing proper rehabilitation with post bunion surgery exercises is critical for minimizing complications and making a full recovery. Starting with gentle joint mobility and progressing to stretching, strengthening, and walking can get you back on your feet comfortably again.

Always follow your podiatric surgeon's protocol closely. With dedication to your prescribed exercises, you can achieve good results and get your foot functioning as normal again after bunion surgery.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.