Hi.I had surgery mid-Jan.This consisted of a bunionectomy and a small implant placed in my big toe to create range of motion which I didn't have.My cartilage had worn away.The recovery is slow but I'm feeling much better.

My questions regard shoes and excercise.It's been over 2 months since surgery and I still cannot wear any of my shoes. Most were pretty wide to begin w/because of the bunion.How long did it take for others to truly wear shoes again and be able to walk with the shoes? Or walk normally? I am walking with a limp now. When could people get back into their shoes comfortably? Dare I ask about heels??

Also, regarding excercise:I currently ride the bike at the gym and use an elliptical machine.How long before someone can get back to aerobics? Spinning classes? Squats and lunges?Does anyone know? Thanks!! I would love to hear about different experiences.

hello Michlynn. i had a bunionectomy about the same time you did and i'm still wearing my cast and using crutches (removable cast)

these are probably questions you should ask your doctor if you can, since only he/she would know the specifics of your case. my doctor told me that it would be about 12 weeks post-surgery before i could expect to walk normally. i can go around the house without the cast on now and i definately limp (i'm 8-weeks post-op now) so i think his estimate was probably right on.

it varies somewhat based on your age, activity level, severity of the surgery and recuperation time. i think the bike is a great idea and also recommend swimming. i finally got back in the gym last week and am really glad i did. i can do most of the leg machines (aside from leg press and calf raises--basically anything that doesn't apply direct weight on my foot) and i've found that helps tremendously. not only do you need to get movement and flexibility back to your foot and toes, you need to build up the lost muscle in your leg and calf before you will be able to do all of the things you did before. take it slow, but do what you can. i'm going to the doctor next week and i'll let you know what he says about expected timelines for shoes/aerobics/high impact weight training. he's been very helpful and accurate for me and it sounds like we're looking to do about the same things.
good luck!

Thanks Notami! It amazes me how many people have had this type of surgery.Only now do I see people all over the City w/"bunion boots".The cast must be frustrating - fortunately I only had to wear the shoe and could walk from day 1 (albeit not well, and I didn't want to!)

This is certainly a very slow process -the doctor said it would be but I thought he was exaggerating http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif He also said that aerobics will probably need to wait til 6 months, but I was wondering if anyone was able to pull that off sooner. The only thing that I really cannot do is a calf raise - I can't even lift off the foot to go down the steps. I guess that comes back eventually.

Good luck w/your continued recovery.Please let me know if you get any more information and I'll certainly do the same. Take Care.