True or False: My Feet Will Hurt So Much After Bunion Surgery!
Most patients are pleasantly surprised that the pain they experience after bunion surgery is not nearly as severe as they were lead to believe it may be by family members or friends. The pain experienced after the surgery can be minimized by following a few simple instructions regarding postoperative care.
- Elevate the foot above the level of the heart,
- Apply ice around the clock for the first few days after surgery
- Remain off the foot as much as possible for the first few days after surgery
If these things are done consistently after surgery, most patients find that they will only require pain medication for the first couple of days after surgery and after that point narcotic medications are not necessary.
Pain is, of course, subjective and all patients experience after surgery is different, but for most patients after bunion surgery this is what they will experience. The patients who get in to trouble with pain after the procedure are those who think the surgery is “no big deal” and walk on their foot too much the first few days after the procedure. This will lead to increased swelling, pain and prolonged healing time. As with most things in our society today, technological advances have lead to new and improved techniques for bunion surgery.
The doctors at Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists are highly trained in the most advanced technologies regarding bunion surgery. This allows us to provide our patients with the best possible results, along with less pain and a faster return to work and athletic activities.
