4 weeks post-op bunionectomy - Foot Problems Message Board

BunionLovah · 12-26-2006, 01:45 PM

The deed was done four weeks ago tomorrow! I will return to the podiatrist tomorrow for a checkup. I would be so thrilled if she would tell me that I could get rid of the boot and wear a wide running shoe.

My foot feels like I could put weight on the forefoot. Of course, I haven't yet-- it just feels like I could.

One weird thing is that I have no feeling in part of the tip of my big toe, and along the incision site. Possibly a nerve was severed? I don't know. I will have to ask her. Anybody else have loss of sensation after this procedure? I am not overly concerned but it is kind of weird.

I discovered this morning that I can wiggle my big toe -- not a lot, but a little-- and without pain. I've been doing the hideous bending exercises as prescribed and they do seem to have had an effect.

I've also been conducting my own personal rehab experiment, by taking a lot of vitamins and supplements and riding the recumbent bike at the gym for 30-40 minutes/day (wearing the boot, putting pressure on the heel only). Riding the bike seems to make a huge difference-- I feel good on the days after I do it. On the days I skip a workout, I have more pain and swelling the next day. It's not a heavy workout, just enough to get my heart rate elevated and increase circulation to the foot.

Thanks to everyone for the advice and support you have given!

Hoppy2006 · 12-26-2006, 05:19 PM

Hooray!

I've had some numbness too, but it seems to be getting better. When I first got the bandages off (end of week 2) I couldn't bear to touch the area - not because it hurt, but because it made me squeamish to touch part of my body and not be able to feel it at all. That's gotten a lot better, although there is still some numbness.

I had the same feeling you did - that if I could just get into normal footwear I'd be able to walk. And I can - well, sort of. I'm having to retrain some of my muscles. But it does feel good to use them again.

I wonder if I could get access to a recumbant bike - that sounds like a great idea!

RightFootMary · 12-27-2006, 02:20 PM

Hey BunionLuvah - sounds like you are doing great. As far as numbness I'm 10 weeks post op and the area where my bunion was is still numb. My dr told me that all the nerves are very close to the skin in your foot and any swelling with make it numb. I also know when I have done too much because I get "pins and needles" feeling in the foot and I have to get off it. That is happening less and less thank goodness. This recovery is very slow but well worth it in the long run (at least I hope so). I know everyone comments on how narrow my foot looks now compared to what it was before. I'm looking forward to those sandals in the summer!!

Keep up the good work.

Mary

BunionLovah · 12-28-2006, 09:24 AM

I know what you mean about the pins and needles-- I hate that feeling! Yuck!

Well, I am wearing running shoes today! It feels very weird to put weight on my forefoot. My calf muscle is totally atrophied after only 4 weeks! My leg feels like it isn't strong enough to support me, or something. It is hard to describe but I'm sure you know what I mean. My husband wants to know why I'm still limping if I'm not wearing a surgical boot anymore. LOL. He thinks I should be back to normal!