Hi Everyone,

I am scheduled to have surgery for a bunion removal (outside big toe)and Morton Neuroma's removed July 11. They are both on the left foot. My question is this. I'm putting in at my job to be out for 4 weeks. Is this enough time? When I do go back I have to be able to function without any limitations, (No crutches, etc...) I'll also be on my feet for 8 hours a day. Also, When I get home from the surgery will I only be able to go to the bathroom and back on the crutches? How many days do you think it will be before I am walking normally again. Thanks in advance for some help and info.

Mary :wave:

You need to ask your surgeon. The neuroma removal doesn't require being NWB. The bunionectomy can be done several different ways and that will determine how long you are off your foot. From what I've read, I doubt you'll be back to normal routine in 4 weeks. Check with your doc...you may need more time off if they can't accomodate any limitations.

I agree with the previous post. These are all questions that only your surgeon can answer. They all have their own protocols and he is the only one that knows exactly what he is going to do. Personally, I always ask these questions when I'm discussing the surgery with the doctor.

It's true that each doctor has his own regimen, so you need to find out what yours is as soon as possible. But you won't necessarily have to EVER use crutches. I had a double bunionectomy a year ago and was only NWB for two weeks and even during that time I could walk a short distance to go to the bathroom. I wore velcro-strapped surgical sandals during the NWB time, never had casts, crutches, etc. After that I started wearing big gym shoes and walking a bit more each day. By four weeks I could make it around the block and I could fit into a pair of not-very-attractive, but also not-very-conspicuous black leather Dr. Scholl shoes I got for 22 bucks. They allowed me to wear black dress pants without looking funny. If you have a desk job where you can elevate your foot, you will probably be okay after four weeks off although you may tire more quickly and easily. I can't imagine standing or doing a lot of walking all day at that point, however. And what is your commute-- driving? (Which foot is involved?) Best wishes!

Hi Everyone,

I am scheduled to have surgery for a bunion removal (outside big toe)and Morton Neuroma's removed July 11. They are both on the left foot. My question is this. I'm putting in at my job to be out for 4 weeks. Is this enough time? When I do go back I have to be able to function without any limitations, (No crutches, etc...) I'll also be on my feet for 8 hours a day. Also, When I get home from the surgery will I only be able to go to the bathroom and back on the crutches? How many days do you think it will be before I am walking normally again. Thanks in advance for some help and info.

Mary :wave:

Had bunionectomy, Morton Neuroma and 1 hammertoe done on 6/26. Am getting around on crutches now, and will be doing so through my sixth week. Speak with your MD and get an honest timeline of your upcoming recuperation. Based on my own experience, I can't imagine being back on my feet without crutches 4 weeks post surgery. In my case, the Morton Neuroma has been the most noticeable; at times, it feels as though someone is gently grabbing the area (between third and fourth toes). I had a little bit of bleeding on day 1 and have a very colorful 4th toe. All in all, little swelling. Ask questions until you get the information you need, and keep foot up and iced at all times. All the best.

How severe is the bunion?
Have an honest discussion with your doctor!
I was seriously under prepared for the bunion surgery that I had.
The recup period for me with a severe bunion and external fixation pins (also the second toe was done with internal pin) was six weeks and then two weeks after the external pins were taken out( in a cam walker the whole time).
Eight weeks on crutches though I could walk on the heel of the cam walker.
I just moved sooo much faster with the crutches.
There is no way you will be walking without crutches or swelling or should even think of an eight hour day on your feet after a month.
I healed really well and had no problems with that aspect.
Surgeons want to do as many surgeries as possible have a discussion!!!!