I had a hallux valgus and Akins proceedure 13 weeks ago

Foot care
1

I am still experiencing swelling and soreness if I stand for too long or walk for too far, is anyone else in the same boat?

2

Hi,

I am exactly the same. I will be 13 weeks tomorow and still suffer from swelling and aches and pains if I do too much. I also had surgery on two toes.

We went away for a holiday a few weeks ago and when I returned home my foot was extremely swollen. Even my ankle and the bottom of my leg was swollen. I think I did far too much walking and the flight probably made it worse. It has gone down quite a lot but I still find it difficult to find any shoes which are comfortable. I have found the compression socks quite good for reducing the swelling and ice and elevation. It is certainly a long road to recovery. Lets hope that it will be worth it in a few more months. My foot certainly tell me who is in charge !

3

Hi, I had my procedure on 12th December 14 on one foot only, the three pins have been left in and I have just started some physio treatment to alleviate the discomfort in my thigh and calf which I have been told is the adjustment my body is making in the way I walk, plus compression of a sciatic nerve, I still roll my foot though!

I  have started walking again but only for 30 minutes a day and the ache is fine if I wear trainers or Clarks Brogue shoes (so pleased they are back in fashion) but if I wear flip flops or other shoes without my half orthotics (which make my back ache) then I am in pain and my foot still swells and aches. I am due to have the other bunion removed in September and as Christine said, your foot tells you when you have done too much but it is such a long recovery process that patience is the only answer. It will get better and your feet will look so much prettier that it is going to be worth it.

4

Hi Christine

Sorry you are suffering too, I haven't used compression socks might give them a try if they have given you some respite.

 

5

Hi Sandra

So sorry you are suffering too. Thank you for your encouragement to be patient, I know you are right. I too am wearing brogues and find them not too uncomfortable, although my walking boots are probably the most comfortable.

 

6

I had mince on 6/1 and still suffering swelling, CRPS stiffness in big toe and burning sensations. Physio is helping and you need to be positive or this recovery can really drag you down.  I am not great at practising what I preach but this forum has been a great support.

you are not alone. We are all sat at home massaging and soaking our aching feet and wondering what the future holds for recover and footwear options! 😱😀😜😎

7

Ha ha.....not mince...mine! 😂

8

Thanks Sue for your words of wisdom, I must admit it's hard to remain positive all the time. Someone said to soak feet in Epsom Salts anyone found this useful?

9

Yes I have tried soaking my foot in Epsom salts and it definitely takes the aches and pains away. As I mentioned before flight socks or compression socks help to reduce the swelling.

10

Can you get the salts from a chemist?

 

11

Yes I bought mine from Boots. One tub does not go very far as you are supposed to put about a cupful of the salts into a foot bath so I had to go back and buy a large tub last week

12

Hello, I had the same procedure, plus lapidus procedure. (Screws on top of foot) to prevent from coming back.

So, I too about 13 weeks and still have swelling around big toe. It's so puffy that if I was to Stand bare foot, it tilts toward one side. (Pinky toes) it hurt so bad some days I can barley stand it. The answer to Epson salt helping, Yes! Yes it does. I find that it make my foot feel so relaxed I don't even want to walk. By you wan to me it soak for at least 15min.

It's a long progress. It will take a long, long time, I figure. I thought I was doing so well and was walking all the time. Then one day it hurt so bad I was forced to keep I up for a few days.

So frustrating!! ;

13

I know the feeling. so helpful to hear everyone's comments. Thanks

14

Omg.. I meant to say. Best way is to soak it for 15 min.

Lol

15

Dear smab.

The solution lies withing the descrition of your comment.

If you're having swelling and soreness if you walk or stand for too long it's quite simple.

You're doing too much and you need to get that foot elevated.

13 weeks may seem an awful long time since your surgery but, it isn't really.

Our feet are totally load bearing lombs and have a lot of pressure put on them normally. Since surgery they have even more to cope with not least the pulling, tugging and re-aligning of the surgery procedure  which also affects the many bones, ligaments etc of the foot.

Just rest as much as you are able. Don't overdo things and the recovery will respond to this.

Good Luck!

Gillian

16

Thank you, there is just a fine balance between too much, you are so right with what you say.

 

17

I'm 11 weeks post op and back to full hours at work from last week (work 12 half hour shifts constantly on my feet ) I thought I was getting past the aches and pains but if I'm on my feet for a long time or wear certain shoes my foot aches including my ankle and the area where bunion was, I know everyone says it's a long recovery but I thought I'd be in more shoes and able to walk further without pain or aches it's very frustrating, on the plus side my foot looks lots better x

18

I can understand it must be difficult being on your feet such a lot.  I am limited shoes still and generally wear my trainers for work and am not on my feet half as much as you are. It is not for the faint hearted this recovery.  I hope you get better soon. Xx

19

Hi Jennifer tried epsom salts and found them really helpful, thanks

20

I'm happy to hear.

Your welcome