After your surgery, your toe may be stiff, red, and swollen. I'm disappointed in the look of my toes. Finally, I settled on the one whom Boston Magazine found to be the best foot and ankle doctor in the state and I also found him on a list of 10 best foot and ankle doctors in the country. It may be necessary to wear a special shoe or a shoe insert to support the toe following the procedure. Bunion and 6-week post-op. My foot feels better than it has in months. You can set up a home recovery area where you can rest comfortably, and dont forget to prepare those pillows that will help you elevate your leg. 31st Oct 2018. An orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist can help a person correct the problem before surgery becomes necessary, so anyone experiencing symptoms of hammer toe should speak to their doctor before allowing it to get worse. Custom orthoticscan also help to support correct alignment in your foot. Blog Hammer toe surgery recovery Though most people can bear weight on their foot immediately after hammer toe surgery, total recovery takes between 4 and 6 weeks. PT is recommended by my dr once I can walk but not before. About Us In most cases, patients will use NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Immediately after your surgery, the operated toe will be red, a bit swollen, and maybe even stiff for a while even though the deformity was corrected successfully. To keep the toe in place, the surgeon may insert temporary pins. 3 Types of Foot Strikes That May Cause You Foot Pain While Running, The Quickest Way to Recover From Foot Surgery, New Office Location, Same Great Foot Care: Serving Seabrook and Somersworth, Dr. Nagy Receives Atlas-FAI Certification for Foot Alignment Treatment, Things to Consider About Where You Have Foot Surgery, Why You Wont Need Crutches After Foot Surgery. Before surgery, a doctor will likely perform blood work and ask the person about their medical history. Holiday shopping on Amazon. Rarely, the pain and swelling can become permanent. Privacy Policy, SEABROOK Most patients are back on their feet and participating in normal activities within three weeks of minimally invasive hammertoe surgery. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. After classifying your hammertoe as either flexible or fixed, . Pin came out 2 weeks ago and I can not feel this toe. Hammertoe surgery is a procedure to correct a deformity in the second, third, or fourth toea bend at the middle joint that makes the toe look like a claw or hammer. Recovery: As it is true to any given medical procedure, the recovery rate varies from person to person. Immediately after your surgery, the operated toe will be red, a bit swollen, and maybe even stiff for a while - even though the deformity was corrected successfully. Its important to note that you should never put ice directly on your skin instead, place a thin cloth when applying ice packs. I HAD hammertoe surgery with a pin 9 weeks ago. And your site is so intelligently arranged. Fusion procedures realign and fixate the bone in place which can limit . I was prescribed antibiotics but 2 days later (a Sunday) I wasn't improving, the seeping and pain was getting worse, so I went to the Emergency dept. Simona I'm at the exact same place in my recovery, 6 weeks from bunion, hammertoe and tailors bunion surgery Oct 30, 2019. Before we get into the details of what to expect during and after hammertoe surgery, lets take a step back and review the basics about hammertoes. If you are planning on having hammertoe correction, your podiatrist will explain any risks or complications involved with the procedure. You may have some minor pain and swelling that lasts as long as 6 months to a year. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'foot_pain_explained_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',177,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-foot_pain_explained_com-medrectangle-4-0');MedlinePlus, Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation. Patient Info The initial post-operative periodusually between 24 and 36 hours after surgerymay require constant or prolonged elevation to help wounds heal and bleeding subside. If a person is squeamish, does not want to see the procedure, or has a phobia of knives or needles, they might prefer general anesthesia. Cold therapy lasts 10-20 minutes never leave your ice packs on the leg for longer. and rest with your foot propped up on a stack of pillows and apply ice for 10-15 minutes every 2-3 hours to relieve swelling. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions before the procedure, so lets see how you can reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. I want to wear something on my feet that doesn't hurt and that makes me feel normal. How? I'm 69 yet fit and (usually) active and fast moving. I'm 64 and a very active cyclist and hiker so this is brutal. For this surgery, a doctor cuts ligaments and tendons to help straighten the toe and may also remove a portion of the bone. Following surgery, most people experience swelling, which can last up to a year. Thank you. Ice packs (or cold packs) can also help reduce swelling. I went out and purchase a pair of soft cloth shoe in a size bigger. A surgeon will cut tendons and ligaments, as well as the ends of the bones. In some cases, you may need to stay off of your feet for a few days. You will be back to your dancing and I will be back to cycling in time. This means a person may go home the same day the surgery is performed. Make sure there's a half-inch (1.27 centimeters) of space between your longest toe and the inside tip of your shoe. Northwest Surgery Centers are the only podiatric surgeons in Colorado offering this unique alternative to traditional, long recovery time bunionectomy surgery. Swelling accompanied by pain isnt the only thing that can occur after hammertoe surgery. I've found when I've tried bare feet, maybe when I've sat down with my feet elevated and then realised I forgot to get something, that it hurts and I tend to automatically keep my toes up and walk(?) A hammer toe causes the toe to bend at the first joint, which is called the proximal interphalangeal joint. Dr. B. is online now Related Medical Questions the-good-doctor Keep ice on your foot during your waking hours for the first few days after your surgery to control pain and reduce swelling. I feel like I'm on house arrest and I mostly stay home, since I can't drive until at least 8 weeks. Learn more about toe fractures and other conditions that can cause these symptoms, plus treatment, People can prevent ingrown toenails by cutting the nails properly. Deformity recurrence hammertoe can return after surgery if the surgeon hasnt treated its underlying issue or selected the wrong surgical procedure. If you have minimally invasive surgery to correct your hammertoe, the procedure is completed in an outpatient setting with a local anesthetic. Nearly five months postsurgery, I've learned that "healing the bone" is only one part of the full recovery. Infection following hammer toe surgery can usually be handled with a short course of oral antibiotics. Use of the forums is subject to our Terms of Use Minimally invasive surgery requires only a few small incisions. You may need to wear splints on your treated toes for up to six weeks and you may benefit from physical therapy to improve flexibility in your foot and to keep the muscles strong and supple while you heal. How did it go? Somersworth, NH 03878 all hammertoe , no bunion. Kathryn Meininger began writing and publishing poetry in 1967. I was told that after 3 days I could take a normal shower and be able to soak my foot too. Its done, Platelets and stem cells work in unison together, they heal diseases and injuries in our bodies. All rights reserved. about laying down on sofa or bed with my feel elevated. But I am worried that I cannot wear even wide soft athletic shoes. This is not you; after bunion surgery, gentle movement is important, so you must take your time and be realistic. What did you do? I lived in Orange County between 1983 and 1990. Seabrook, NH 03874 After surgery, a person will typically feel some pain in the toe and must have someone drive them home. In some cases, a keloid scar can form. It's not always in the same joint or even the same toe. Often, hammertoe corrective surgery requires the patient to take significant time out of their schedule. A 2005 study of 12 older adults who had toes amputated found that the procedure could alleviate pain, and people were typically very satisfied with surgical outcomes. Its actually the first pain I'm experiencing since the surgery. Registered in England and Wales. I'm finding that for me this procedure has been an emotional journey as well as a physical one. So, I am still elevating my foot a lot. You are to . Below are the best ways to slow or stop swelling for patients who've recently undergone surgery to their feet or ankles. I have a return visit with the doctor which is 6 weeks after the removal of two pens in two of the three toes operated on. Chronically swollen toes can also be the result of a symptomatic non-union at an attempted arthrodesis site. It takes a long time to get back to normal. Ice placed just above the surgical site can help keep swelling to a minimum. I have iced, soaked & elevated my foot & got no relief. As tlw described, I do the toe curling and also a stretching exercise with my 2 affected toes on my left foot - the doctor said twice a day - but the infection in my right foot has meant I couldn't exercise that toe; it's quite stiff by comparison. My doctor said my x-ray looked perfect but if it still was swollen in another 3 months to come back for an MRI. Patients with hammertoes often have other toe problems, such as bunions or corns. While these untoward results can occur, they are unlikely if both the surgeon and the . Marc Mitnick DPM Mar 10, 2017 Rating different toes by: Stefany Then I bought a pair of Merrel shoes (almost bear foot with wide front), those were comfortable. If your feet are still swollen please don't force them in shoes. Since reading several patient accounts I now realize the recovery is likely 3-5 months. Then we lived in CT for three years in CT and since 1993 we are in SE Massachusetts. I was happy with the results, except for my second toe being the same length as my big toe. So, this shouldnt alarm you unless it persists for some period of time. Your podiatric surgeon inserts specially designed surgical tools through the incision to release the tight tendons and muscles. A person will need to avoid putting weight on the foot for several weeks. My pin was pulled out at 6 weeks minus one day, my foot was unwrapped and only some steri strips were left at the sites of incisions, that is a few such strips over the former bunion, a few strips at the base of the second toe (formerly hammer toe) and a vertical strip along this second toe. And it hurts, shooting pain that is amplified when I put that surgical sandal on to go to the bathroom. my toes (the 2 in the middle) got twisted going down a step & now it's worse! I really don't want to go through another surgery on this toe, I had a pin at the end of my toe for three weeks and had to stay off my foot for 3 weeks. After picture taken immediately after surgery. I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Ways To Reduce Fluid Buildup in a Swollen Foot. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. Once you are comfortable, you can go home with your chosen companion. Seems so strange to have such a minor work out be so hard. However, you can often begin putting a little weight on the affected foot within 24 hours. "The most common complaint is stiffness and swelling of the toe, which can last for a few months," says Dr. Botek. And long walks. I only realised that about a month ago but they've probably been good like that for 2 or 3 months. I was told the steri strips would eventually come off by themselves. Thank you! It still hurts to walk. It is recommended to walk every day for at least a little bit during your recovery period. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Reading the responses really hasn't given given me much relief as it sounds like 8-12 weeks is the next date to look forward to. I do not have any pain in my toes; however they still look swollen and do bend like the other toes. You will be able to walk immediately after your surgery but should take it easy and keep your foot elevated for three or four days. I'm now 10 months post op and doing well. People with unusually long toe bones, a history of toe injuries, and rheumatoid arthritis are more at risk of developing hammer toe. You may even experience tingling or burning as your foot heals. Stage 1: Swelling. Toe-strengthening exercises, such as picking items up off the floor with the toes, may also help. We don't and now I am in an enforced prolonged house arrest. You might also be advised to have physical therapy to correct the muscle imbalance in your foot. You should elevate your leg above the level of your heart if youre lying down, put the leg against the wall or on the pillow. My 4th toe is still swollen and hurts 6 months after hammer toe surgery. One of the most effective ways to reduce swelling is to ensure you get enough rest. Last wk. Take your antibiotics religiously and expect swelling for a long time, so put your feet up often. I know there is light at the end of the tunnel but how long is this tunnel? Not the most fashionable lol but it's a start!! After he removed my pin, he sent me home without any bandages, just the steri strips. The second, third, fourth or fifth toes are affected most often and the deformity usually develops over time as a result of chronic inflammation arthritis, ligament injury or wearing poorly-fitted shoes. I try to do some flexing but then I get shooting pains at the bunion and hammertoe location. Minimally invasive surgeries have improved patient outcomes, reducing many of the risks of traditional surgery. The boot is TOO hard and heavy for me to walk! Most patients have some swelling after surgery, which may last for . Usually, infections after hammertoe surgery arent complicated and can be fully treated with a course of oral antibiotics. I don't think that would be helpful for healing, since we've had major work done on our bones and I don't want to ruin that. Of course, resting is an important part of your recovery its crucial after every surgery. Heart failure: Could a low sodium diet sometimes do more harm than good? The doctor will tell you the dose you need to use and for how long. They rarely persist after the first six months post-surgery. Is it because of the swelling? appropriate medical assistance immediately. White blood cells in your . Nevertheless, I was happy with the results. Contact Us I can't wear a shoe very long maybe up to two hours and then only tennis shoes. Luckily, these scars are small and often fade over time. Every specialist will ensure you understand the risks and benefits of this procedure and that you have realistic expectations. Usually, for Christmas I do a lot of special cooking. Hammer toe repair - discharge. college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. I interviewed 7 surgeons before settling on my surgeon but it was hard to find references from former bunion patients so I'm just praying everything will work out! If your foot takes a bit longer to heal, there might be some persistent mild swelling weeks after the surgery. After having a hammer toe corrected through surgery, there is the chance that the deformity will return 1. An article revealing that older type 2 diabetics have a higher incidence of cancer then non-diabetics. I am in constant pain. First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you. Pain can be controlled through the use of pain medications dispensed by the surgeon. THANKS FOR A WONDERFUL AND VERY HELPFUL SITE! My 2nd toe is numb am very swollen . You will be able to walk immediately after your surgery but should take it easy and keep your foot elevated for three or four days. It's very painful. Extreme swelling and pain 7 months after foot surgery. EASILY and QUICKLY! I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. Surgery may also be needed when chronic big toe inflammation and swelling isn't relieved with rest or medicines. Getting the proper nutrition will provide your body with the essentials it needs to promote healing. I did wear it all day and my toe hurts. It is very important to be patient with this swelling. I wonder why it hurts when I leave it on in bed? Pain and swelling should slowly improve over the next 6 weeks. I am 33 weeks PO. A person with a history of hammer toe is at risk of developing it again, even after surgery, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes that fit and to follow a doctors recommendations for protecting the joint. However, this is only possible in milder cases where the affected toe is still flexible. A wound dehiscence refers to a surgery that does not heal or breaks open after healing. I take a 7 and purchase a 8 slip on. Types of Hammertoe Surgery. I thank you for putting together this incredible website. My doctor said and I have read it also swelling would can't for up to a year. Thank you. I still have the strips in the other places. A fusion procedure can reduce the severity of a fixed hammer toe. Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really Hammer toe surgery requires the cutting of skin, nerves, tendon and bone, and as such, pain and swelling are not unexpected following the surgery, according to Premier Podiatry. Services Lapiplasty is minimally invasive, meaning it requires smaller incisions and less trauma to the foot area. FAX: (603) 964-6515. My feet are not sore to walk at all! from him right now and I won't be back to the area until around Xmas. I know that it does not offer enough support but there is no shoe of any kind that I can put my foot into. In some cases, a wound dehiscence may occur. The most common surgical techniques employed to address the rigid or so-called fixed hammertoe deformities are PIPJ resection arthroplasty or PIPJ arthrodesis. Theresa, I had bunionectomy & hammertoe surgery on one foot. Thank you for your very interesting and informative site! Recovery Time The amount of time it will take you to recover from hammertoe surgery will vary depending on the type of surgery performed, but generally, you can expect the following: Bunion Surgery: Hammertoes are common in women who wear high heels and children who wear shoes that are too small. It should also reduce pain. After having a hammer toe corrected through surgery, there is the chance that the deformity will return 1. . In some cases, a wound dehiscence may occur. Ahammertoeis a deformity of your toe, where the middle joint is pulled out of alignment by tight muscles or tendons. Should I try the colban wrap? Dactylitis is a symptom that is most often seen in patients who have inflammatory Psoriatic or Rheumatoid arthritis, which are auto-immune diseases. Blood vessels in the area of the cut begin to form clots that keep you from losing too much blood. Appointments 216.444.2606. I was lucky it was summertime. What to Expect After the Procedure. For example, a toe swollen a month after hammertoe surgery is considered one. My toes were extremely swollen, but I was told this is normal and would decrease gradually. Simona, I can so relate! Hi Simona, I feel your pain!!! Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? It was a good thing I brought a sock at my visit. Today I had the idea of holding some frozen pea packets against the swelling. When I returned with pain he said it looked fine and to give it more time. I normally never wear trainers except for the gym; they have always made my feet feel claustrophobic , and they go with none of the sort of clothes I wear. However, there are a couple of things to be wary of: i. to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. The surgeon stresses the importance of that. Hammer toe surgery is primarily done on an outpatient basis. Andrew worked the entire time after surgery and had absolutely no pain or need for pain medication. Damage to the lymphatic and/or venous circulation can account for this postoperative edema. Home They may also be unable to drive for several weeks. Full recovery may take as long as 1 year. 4-6 weeks: Any surgical pins that were used may be removed. Two to three months after your operation, you should be able to return to all of your usual activities and sports, although some mild swelling may remain for up to twelve months. This means you need to draw an imaginary figure A, then B, then C and so on, all the way to Z. Your doctor may suggest that you elevate for about 30 minutes every two hours or on an as-needed basis if you notice a high amount of swelling or pain after the initial . Is this normal. I'm so paranoid and just want a 2nd opinion. I am practically under house arrest. Recovery doesnt always need to be painful, so some patients dont need medication to deal with the pain. what is your take on this & can you recommend some other therapies for me to try I would ask my surgeon myself, but I am vacationing 2,200 mi. Some people will receive intravenous (IV) medication before or during surgery. Ice packs to reduce pain and swelling can help with pain and inflammation. welling stopped probably the end of August beginning of September my foot is completely normal. My incisions are pretty much healed now. 325-1 Lafayette Road I teach tennis so am supposed to wear while teaching. A surgical site creates a wound, so there is the small possibility of developing an infection afterward, according to Premier Podiatry. (Regina, Sk, Canada) My daughter had surgery on her foot for turf toe (repair of plantars plate) and for a hammer toe. Everything you need to know about hammer toe. Wearing ill-fitting or pointy-toed shoes is one of the most common causes of a hammer toe. I rotate different day but ALWAYS make sure to keep my foot up for a WHOLE day unless I have to use the restroom..haha. After about 2-3 weeks, your doctor will remove the stitches. Allowing adequate space for your toes will help relieve pressure and pain. A compressive dressing is used until the sutures are removed 10-14 days after surgery. It depends on the type of surgery. In some cases, you may end up not being able to walk without an assistive device like a cane. i have an infection in one of my toes. Swelling and pain are common after hammertoe surgery, up to a point, so if your pain is beyond the expected normal, your surgeon should be made aware of it. I still have pain and swelling 7 weeks after hammertoe surgery. I use the heavy black Frankenstein boot if go out. A presentation of newer skin protection combinations in an effort to better protect the skin from the hazards of sun exposure. This comment is to let one know what to expect with hammertoe surgery. respect of any healthcare matters. Osteomyelitis needs to be treated in the hospital with an extended course of intravenous antibiotics, followed by another course of oral antibiotics. Again, I want A good review of how blood sugars can become elevated and the harm that can do. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. I knew this sedentary lifestyle would be brutal. How? Hammer toe can develop in any of the lesser toes, but most often affects the second toe, according to the Merck Manuals 1. It's 5 weeks today since my surgery.
