Hello I am just three days out from having a Chevron/Akin double bunionectomy. I had my surgery on January 5th as a same day procedure. Doing both is advised against but I was able to convince my surgeon as I have four teenagers as well as my husband for support. I wanted to do both and get it done and over with! Most important when you get home is elevate and ice on and off. I have kept my feet elevated round the clock since I've been home. Also keep on top of your pain meds the first couple of days at your peak worst. My pain level has been tolerable with the pain meds, the pain is not completely gone but they definitely help. Because I had a double I have to use a walker to get to the bathroom. I was sent home with crutches but at this early stage I find the walker to be more useful. I have walking shoes that I try to put as little weight on my heals, putting most of my weight on my arms while holding onto the walker. Walking at this early stage definitely hurts so I only get up to use the bathroom. I will have my one week post op with my surgeon where she will change the dressing and I will finally be able to see the results. Fingers crossed they look good!
Hi Autum,
I'm new to this group. I had a bunion removed, a sizeable morton's neuroma and a hammer toe, (my little toe) straightened out. This took place 12/30/17. I went for my first post op visit to check on the 3 screws, everything looks fine. I get my cast off 1/20/17. I am counting down the days until the cast comes off. The dried blood is scratchy and oh boy when my foot swells it definitely hurts. My question to you is how does it feel to put any weight on your foot? Are you supposed to have physical therapy?
The whole screw factor is frightening.
Susan
Hi Susan,
It's been nearly three months since my surgery and I'm doing quite well. At my last appointment, the Dr. told me I could finally start putting weight on it (it had been two months non weight bearing at that point). I'll admit, I was quite nervous and expected to have instant pain but it wasn't too bad. The only way I can explain the sensation is to say that my foot felt 'thick'. It's hard to explain - it just didn't feel like it was touching the floor correctly. It wasn't swollen but just seemed that way.
It's definitely getting better as each week passes. I slowly transitioned into my sneakers, a few hours each day and am now boot free and wearing my nikes.
My Dr. didn't mention physical therapy to me. From what I've gathered most P/T can be done by yourself in your home. I've taken bits and pieces of info I've found and have been doing a few range of motion exercises. There has been zero pain pain (thankfully) with weight bearing.
The only issue I've run into is the cold - when my foot gets cold the areas where the screws are ache - and I'm sure it will be that way for ever.
I too was quite nervous about weight bearing again with screws in but do as instructed and don't over do it and you should be just fine
Autum
Hi Nadine,
Thanks for well wishes...today is post-op day 5, surgery was Thurs 1/5.
Been doing pretty well, especailly first day or so when I was still on anesthethia and had numbness in my foot so I couldn't feel anything. Then came a scary episode Saturday evening--dizziness, lightheadness and faint-like symptoms, due to constipation from pain medication.
Pretty scary as my boyfriend has to call 911. It sure was a fun Saturday night! LOL I am so grateful he was here with me.
I'm been off the pain meds now...scared to go back, pain is more manangable. Been able to have regualr bowel movements since yesterday (Sunday) afternoon. Had a spoge bath and change of clothes today...trying to rest. Ice & elevation are definitely key!!! Lots and lots!
Becomign a bit restless laying around more but trying to stay positive and upbeat.
Also, I use a walker...I find it MUCH more stable and reliable than crutches. It is also much safer!
I keep the boot on ALL the time....even when I sleep and rest and it elevaed as well. I ONLY get up to use bathroom, in close proximity to the edge of my bed.
I am concerned in a few days when my boyfriend goes back to work. He will be gone for long hours 10 days...
Anyone have any suggestions?
Also, Thurs, one week post-op, I have a doctor's appoitment with the surgeon. (podiatrist)
I feel SO grateful and blessed with this recovery time and wish you all well!
Best,
Jenny
Hi Jenny!
I too am recovering from surgery and am alone over 10 hours a day. My bedroom is upstairs. My foot is in a cast, I cannot put any weight on my foot.
I spent the first week pretty much upstairs with my walker. It's exhausting going up and down 14 stairs on your butt. I had everything I needed within reach. Water bottles, snacks, pb&j sandwiches, snack bars, books, cellphone, charger. When I take a bath I put my foot in a plastic bag and let it hang over the side of the tub. My cell phone is always close by in case I need help while in the tub.I have a huge cup to pour water over me, it makes washing my hair a lot easier.
I actually haven't needed pain meds after day 3. I keep my foot elevated above my heart with ice as much as I can.
On the first floor of my home I use a scooter. I have 2 small dogs that always want a treat, to go out or lay on top of me, so needless to say I don't rest much on the first floor.
I too was restless thinking of all the things "I should" be doing. I found reading and watching movies made the days go faster.
I recommend packing things you need in a small backpack if you are going to move to another room. It's a lot easier than making several trips.
Best wishes,
Susan
Hi Sue,
A big kuddos to you!!! It sounds like you have it all covered and organized well! Hope your recovery continues to go well!
Post op, day 5, first doctor follow-up in two days, 1/12.
Living situation: I am on one level only and my bedroom is closeby to my bathroom. I will be alone with some help stopping by starting in a few days so I am preparing.
Meds: I am now off the pain meds, which is much better because I did not have a good experience with them. :-( Pain is managaeable and I hope it stays this way..sticking with ES Tylenol only!
Any tips for constipation due to limited movement?
I love the backpack idea! :-) and, yes, of course, ICE ELEVATION!
Also, found some relief remvoing boot a while and exercising! AHHH! :-)
Any others for meal prep/ management while on own?
Washing hair? (I know not a major concern but may feel good to have self-care)
When were you able to bathe?
Appreciate any advice!
Best of luck to you and thanks much!
Jenny
Hi Jenny!
As far as constipation I take Miralax or if I'm too lazy I eat some prunes. Make sure you drink plenty of water
Icing and elevation is the best for pain management.
I started to bathe as soon as the pain was gone, day 3.
When I wash my hair I put some towels on the floor and kneel over the bathtub. I use the big cup to pour water over my head to get my hair wet, then wash and rinse my hair.
To bathe (keep in mind my surgery foot is my right foot) I keep a bunch of towels near the tub, along with a wash cloth, bar of soap and of course my cell phone in case of emergency along with my walker. I fill up the bath tub about 6 inches, cover my right foot with a big plastic bag so I don't get my cast wet,. I sit on the edge of the tub put my left foot in and kneel in the tub with my left leg until I can straighten it out an then leave my right leg over the side of the tub. I'll wash my body and use the big cup to pour clean water over me to rinse off the soapy water. There's nothing like being clean and putting on clean clothes!
I forgot to mention when I get out of the tub and dry off I have a chair by my sink with my clean clothes, I sit there and get dressed and sit while I dry my hair. I also keep a pillow case to put my dirty clothes in. It'seems easier to bring to the wash machine.
As far as meal prep, do you have a crock pot? You can toss a few ingredients in and make a meal. I usually start my day with a bowl of oatmeal and yogurt. I eat apples with peanut butter or celery with peanut butter or almonds or cheese.
Any other suggestions just ask!
Susan
Hi Jen. I had both feet done, 6 and 8 weeks ago. Got to say each one feels different! I had scarf and akin (??). Am wearing heel walk sandals (both, or i wld be unbalanced). No crutches. Wheelchair if friends want to take me out. Am due to take them off next week after x ray i hope. Each morning my calves are SO tight! Anyway, i have a few routines - i carry/throw a bag up & down stairs with book, glasses, pills, phone. I use the stairs sideways or bottom shuffle if stiff. Make a large pot of coffee and then microwave 1 cup when needed, then put in thermos cup to carry! Cartons of soup, bread rolls and fruit for daytime eating (husband & teenagers not around). Leave door off the latch so friends can enter. Lots of crochet, FBook, films and books! I have good days and bad days. Sometimes I get sudden stabbing pains or a skin burning sensation in one foot. Sometimes a dull ache deep inside both. So definitely still on occasional painkillerrs.
Hi Sue,
Thanks again for your thoroughness!
Had my one week post-op today with surgeon. It went very well. He changed bandage. I am weight bearing as tolerated still and supposed to wear boot..stitches will come out next week. He also did not recommend bathing...:-(
Thanks for tips on bathing......Good for you in starting it so soon. Althoguh I am actually VERY eager to do so, however, I do not feel comfortable with my bathroom/ shower stall situation, however, I love the kneeling idea for hair washing. I would LOVE to wash my WHOLE BODY because had some complications (not surgery related) and I hear you in that it would FEEL amazing! Guess the men (who we love dearly) don't quite understand how nice it feels to be clean, especially our hair! LOL
Pain seems to be ok until today out and about i cold weather, dressing change so it has been high. Had trouble w/ pain meds (Norco) not agreeing w/ me so sticking to ES Tylenol.
Meal prep: simple, although been craving some hot items...soup and pieces of chicken for now. My diet has been limited due to complications so harder to manage.
Mobility: I use walker vs crutches..find it much more supportive!
Appreciate all the tips, especially bathing....my bf is away for work a few days and may try to wash my hair....would love to get pain under control first.
Any sleeping tips?
ps. whereabouts are you located?
Take care,
Jenny
Hi Alice,
Kuddos to you for having both done!! Hope your recovery is going well. Interesting because seems like many docs here don't recommend or do both at the same time.
Appreciate the tips, although different bc I am one week post-op from LLE. Had my one week follow up today at doc, x-rays, dressing change. etc Next week stitches out. Healing well, yay!! My foot looks great! :-)
Sounds like ur handling it all well..impressive!
Best of luck to you in your recovery!
Jenny
Hi Jen. I'm in England. Agree with you about the hair washing as there are only so many areas a baby wipe will reach! I went to the hairdressers twice just to get my hair washed and dried (£5) and asked around for a lift there and back. I owe a lot of favours now! I'm not so sure I have been brave as the first time I had a bath (after 2 weeks the bandage came off and i have dissolving stitches) i crawled back to the bed and cried and cried over my poor swollen foot. Some sort of emotional backlash. But one can only go forward and there is progress, just slow.
Hi Jenny,
I live in the US near Chicago. It's cold now. We had sleet Thursday so going out with my scooter was not fun.
I'm so happy your surgery went well! Yeah!!!!!
Sleeping is the hardest for me. I prefer sleeping in a bed on my side. I'm not a back sleeper. I was told to keep my foot higher than my heart. So I put a bunch of pillows stacked high (for the surgery foot) with extra pillows on both sides for my other leg. I go to sleep with an ice bag on my leg right above the cast; I'm probably breaking the rules, it's not extreme cold but it prevents me from taking pain medication.
Susan
Hi Sue in Chicago, Jen in Los Angeles
I guess we are just West Coast whimps here in LA becasue the wind and cold of the mid-60's, mid-40's at night is CHILLY for me!
I went to undergrad in Arizona....love the warm summer sun! :-)
Good luck w/ scooter mobility there. Be careful! I bet it helps to give you more autonomy!
Post-op week 2- day 9 bandage removal few days ago, stitches out in 5 days.
Totally agree with the sleeping. I am NOT getting much sleep at all!
Noisy neighbors at my home. Been sleeping at my folks house but just cannot get comfortable--Not a back sleeper either, usually all over the place, but the wearing the boot makes it tough. Great idea to ice and elevate high to avoid pain meds. Let me know how that works out!
I hear you in not "breaking the rules" and following doc instructions. I am also BIG on that because I want to ensure I recover quickly and correctly!
I am currently progressed to crutch mobility and movind around more independently thanks to my second cargiver, my mother! :-)
My boyfriend was a bit more dotting on me....a great thing, indeed, especially my first week after surgery!
Been up and about much more and had my hair done yesterday, which felt amazing! Self-care is key!
Initaily I was interested in shower....now that my hair is done, I honeslty don't care anymore.
Pain has increased....sleeping tough so tips there would be great!
Tell me again how far along you are again..?
Stay warm & continue to recover well!
Jenny
Hi Jen,
I am 2 weeks post op non weight bearing. I have a cast on my right foot and in 6 days the cast comes off and then I transition to a boot, I won't be 100% weight bearing for a while due to all the work that was done on my foot. I do have disolvable stitches so they don't need to be removed.
I use a scooter versus crutches because when I initially broke the calcaneous bone in this foot when I fell 2 years ago I fractured the schaphoid bone in both wrists. I have rheumatoid arthritis. I need to be off the RA meds (to heal faster) consequently my wrists are sore, it's quite difficult to use crutches.
Unlike you, my parents are deceased
When my spouse is home he has been somewhat helpful. I find it easier to do things on my own.
I purchased a Foam Support Pillow from Amazon
it helps a lot with sleeping. I can turn my leg sideways, it keeps the ice bag in place, then I put a pillow on the side of it for my other leg It makes side sleeping and elevating easier. It doesn't come with a cover so I placed a bunch of pillow cases over it. I also put this on the recliner when I watch TV.
By the way I'm hooked on this TV series called Good Behavior. You should check it out.
You may need to elevate and ice your foot more to alleviate the pain. I truly haven't been on pain meds since day 3. When your foot swells you'll have pain. I have to really avoid swelling because a cast doesn't expand.
I hope that helps.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Susan
Emis Moderator comment: I have removed the link(s) directing to site(s) unsuitable for inclusion in the forums. If users want this information please use the Private Message service to request the details.
http://patient.uservoice.com/knowledgebase/articles/398331-private-messages
Hi
Am at eight weeks now my foot still swells the cut looks good but having one heck of a time learning to walk had my left foot operated on and uf i walk awhile really bugs my right hip area my ankle is still stiff from the shoe after surgery that i wore for 6 weeks not much pain in my toe but bone area is still swollen
Hang in there
Susan
Hi! I am almost 4 weeks post op from a lapidus bunionectomy with 2 screws. I'm non weight bearing til 6 weeks. The knee roller has saved me! My husband attached a basket to it so I can keep things with me I need. (Phone, etc)
As for bathing, I have a tub/shower. I purchased a shower chair before my surgery. I have a shower head that detaches to a hand held and I've been able to shower and wash my own hair. These things are a must!
Keep elevated and iced the first two weeks!
Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Lisa
Hi Sue and all recovering,
Happy rainy Sunday here in Cali!
Now, 2 weeks 3 days post-op from L bunion surgery. At my 2-wk post-op this past Wed. my stiches were removed. I am currently off the crutches I transtioned to and about to weight bear and walk on my own.
I celebrated my bday yesterday w/ my FIRST shower just the day before!
That felt amazing! It's all about the self-care and the little things.
Pain mgmt: ICE ICE ICE and elevation
Helps a TON and you won't need any medication.
Hence, avoid potential tummy and bowel issues.
Recommendations:
ICE, elevation, LOTs of self-care, keep things simple so you can rest and recover
Sleeping: place a wedge or a few pillows by your feet. Roll up a blanket for under your knee; It will help to support knee and alleviate pain.
Try sleeping on back or opposite side of surgery. It defintely takes a while to get comfotable, but, just know, it WILL get better.
Last night I slept the best yet! Over 10+ hours, much needed!
(one of my many bday gifts)
Showering: (when doctor says your able) Set and prepare in advance. USE grab bars, need sturdy surface for support while standing. Take breaks when needed. It may be diffcult to put full weight initially, so do what you can.
EXERCISE & stay strong: Theraband or you can use cans of food. Make biceps and triceps strong. Depending on your level of recovery, (first wo wks tough bc hardest) as you get better, try to walk a bit more. It will feel nice as compared to lying around too much.
Wish you all well and speedy and heathly recovery!
Jenny
Hi Susan, I read on another forum that you can buy a 'foot leveller' on Amazon (maybe like a thick sandal?), that you wear on the other foot for walking. This wld avoid back problems. All the best x
Hi Jenny!
A belated Happy Birthday to you! Wow everything sounds great! I'm so happy to hear of your wonderful progress.
Susan
Thanks so much! Yes, each and everyday!
Hope you're doing well too!
Now...for the job hunt....do you happen to know how to transtion back to work and when the doctor will allow you to?