A bunion is an unnatural area of enlargement that is usually found at the base of your big toe, causing the toe to point inward toward the other toes. Bunions occur most often in women and usually form as a result of wearing poorly fitted shoes. A hammertoe is a toe that curls because its middle joint is bent, causing it to point downward, and may also be the result of improper footwear. Both conditions, if they are severe enough, may require surgery. After surgery, it is necessary to undergo physical therapy to return strength and range of motion to the foot and toes that may have been lost as a result of the operation. Consult with your doctor to determine what kind of post-operative treatment is right for you.
Surgery Recovery
In the days following bunion and hammertoe surgery, you may be asked to remain off your feet for several days, but usually no longer than a week. The goal at this phase of physical therapy is to control inflammation and minimize pain and discomfort. You may be instructed to ice and elevate the affected foot throughout the day. This will decrease swelling, which hinders the healing process. Your doctor may also prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to further control swelling and reduce pain. After several days, you may be able to walk around with the use of crutches.
Range of Motion Therapy
Once the swelling around your foot has decreased, your physical therapist may have you begin range of motion therapy. Bunions and hammertoes restrict the foot's range of motion, which can lead to discomfort, pain and possible injury to the rest of the foot and ankle. Increasing range of motion after surgery can reduce the risk of further injury to the foot. Your physical therapist may have you complete a series of stretching exercises designed to increase flexibility of your foot and toes.
Strength Training Therapy
During surgery, the surgeon may have to cut through the muscles of your foot to reach the area of the bunion and hammertoe, damaging small muscles in your foot in the process. As a result, you may lose strength across the bottom and inside of your foot. To correct this, the physical therapist may have you perform strength training exercises to help rebuild any damaged muscle. Your physical therapist may have you complete exercises using your own body weight, resistance bands or machines to strengthen these muscles.
Returning to Normal Activity
Recovery from bunion and hammertoe surgery is relatively rapid compared to other surgeries. You may be able to return to work wearing a protective boot in less than a week and a half following surgery. However, complete recovery may take weeks to months, depending on the severity of the deformities. Even after you are able to return to normal activity, your physical therapist may recommend you continue performing the same range of motion and strength training exercises you did before. This will ensure your foot remains strong and flexible, which can reduce the risk of redeveloping a bunion and hammertoe in the future.
References
- "Therapeutic Exercise: Foundations and Techniques (5th edition)"; Carolyn Kisner and Lynn Colby; 2007
- Bunion Surgery Recovery; Bunion Surgery Recovery; 2009
