What procedure are you having done? What does the surgeon say about recovery? There are many different procedures for bunions so it is difficult to give you a blanket answer.
I definitely agree with Titchou that there are many different types of surgeries for bunions, so that will make a difference, but don't stress too much.
I have had bad feel all of my life and I had to have bunions removed from both of my feet. I started seeing a foot podiatrist when I was 5 years old and by the time I was about 9 they were waiting for my feet to stop growing so they could do the bunionectomies. Ultimately I had the surgeries when I was 14 and 15 years old.
While it is frustrating to have to have the surgeries at a young age it can also be a good thing. First, our bodies heel better the younger we are, so you should have a relatively speedy recovery. Also, assuming you live with your parents at this time, having them to help out during your recovery is very helpful!
For me personally, I had one of the more invasive procedures on my feet. After surgery I was in bed for about a week, and then after that I was non-weight baring for about 6 weeks. After I got off my cast and was able to start weight-baring again, I adjusted back pretty quickly. I didn't need physical therapy or anything.
Hope this helps a bit, and I would be more than happy to answer any other questions you have!
- UofMGimp
The following user gives a hug of support to UofMGimp: AuntyJuJu (06-18-2012)
The Following User Says Thank You to UofMGimp For This Useful Post: AuntyJuJu (06-18-2012)
Osteoctomy is what he said I think. He said I'll be in casts for 6 weeks. The first 3 weeks I won't be able to walk though. But I'm over weight so that may change things a bit.
I had my left foot done when I was 16. This was 24 years ago so things were a little different. I stayed in the hospital for a few days but I was back to school the next week. I was also in a cast for 6 weeks using crutches. I do remember being an idiot and walking on the cast because I hated the crutches so much. Ultimately I crushed the cast and took it off myself. The doctor wasn't happy with me at all but thankfully it healed properly and I've had no problems since.
Fast forward 24 years and I got my right foot done almost 6 weeks ago. I was in a cast for 2.5 weeks and I've been wearing a toe splint since the cast came off. Recuperating time is MUCH longer now.
Getting them done when your young is a good thing. My opinion only because my surgery went well.
The Following User Says Thank You to jodew71 For This Useful Post: AuntyJuJu (06-19-2012)
I think you need more information. An osteotomy is simply a shaving of the bone at an angle. If you are going to be non weight bearing (NWB) and having a cast, he is doing far more extensive surgery. What kind of doctor is this? I strongly suggest an ortho who is foot and ankle board certified.
If you are worried about mobility while you can't walk, I would suggest looking into option other than crutches. I have had four foot surgeries at this point, and every time I have opted to get a wheel-chair to use for the first week or so after surgery. It is a good way to get a change in scenery while still keeping you leg elevated.
Another option as you become more mobile is a knee walker. I was able to rent one the last two years and they are much easier to get around on. For the purpose of full-disclosure I will be honest and say that I didn't really like using my knee-walker but often had to since it was the only way I could really get around my college campus on my own. When I did use it though, I often found the everyone tends to stare at you though cause they don't really know what it is. Personally, I always hated this.
They'll be doing both of mine on July 24th. So I won't be able to walk for 3 weeks. I'm just hoping they'll give me a wheelchair. I'm a big girl at my age
My surgeons name is Dr. Sears. He's a children's foot and ankle specialist. He says I'll be having a pin sticking out of my toes for the first 3 weeks.
It's more than not being able to walk. How are you going to use the bathroom? SOmeone will have to put you on the toilet. Is your house ADA compliant? Will a wheelchair even fit thru your doors? The bathroom door, etc? I've had 3 foot surgeries and was NWB for 5 days with one and I can tell you, it ain't easy! I cannot imagine what it owuld be like to not be able to put either one down at all.
Some of my doorways are big enough for a wheel chair, but the others aren't. So moving around will be very limited for me Mom says she'll get me a potty chair though because the bathroom door is tiny.
What's it like to have the surgery done?
