A bunionectomy can be an invasive, painful procedure to remove a bunion, and typically takes at least several months to heal. Rehabilitation exercises will typically be prescribed several weeks after surgery, and this can vary, depending on what type of bunionectomy you had. It is important not to attempt any type of exercise until your surgeon says it is safe. Check with your surgeon about each exercise, to make sure your foot is ready for the activity.
Assisted Range-of-Motion Exercises
To start exercising after a bunionectomy, some of the first exercises you will likely perform are assisted range-of-motion exercises. Kaiser Permanente describes one such exercise: take hold of the big toe near the toenail, and gently help flex your toe upward. Keep doing this until you feel some discomfort, and hold that position for 10 seconds. Typically you do this exercise three times, then switch and flex your big toe downward three times. Do the exercise three times a day. Over the course of several weeks you can build up to doing this exercise six times a day, with deeper flexing.
Weight-Bearing Exercise
Once your physician or physical therapist gives you permission, you can undertake light weight-bearing exercises. To start, push up on your toes, raising your heel off the ground, flexing at the toes. Try to hold this position for 10 seconds, says Kaiser Permanente. If you cannot hold it for all 10 seconds, simply stay on your toes until you cannot tolerate it anymore. Walking up hills or steps to encourage flexion in the big toe joint is also suggested.
Manipulation Exercises
As the toe regains flexibility and mobility, manipulation exercises may be recommended. Grasp your foot behind the big toe joint, with your thumb on the top of the foot. Take the other hand and grasp the big toe at the base of the joint. While stabilizing your foot, push the big toe upward while keeping it straight, says Kaiser Permanente. Hold this position for 10 seconds and do three repetitions, then do three more reps pushing the big toe downward.
Other Exercises
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons adds that a physical therapist may prescribe certain exercises after your bunionectomy to help strengthen the entire foot and your range of motion. Resistance band exercises or picking up marbles with your toes may be prescribed to help restore toe functioning. Ask your surgeon when you can add other forms of exercise that can help strengthen your foot, like swimming or biking. To avoid injury, do not attempt any sports or activities without checking with your doctor.
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