“How long after bunion surgery can you exercise?”
I had bunion surgery 2 weeks ago. I want to exercise. How long after bunion surgery can you exercise?
6 Answers
OrthopedistOrthopedist
Need more info.There are different types of bunion surgery.Was there an bone re-alignment with pins or stews? Or just bone removal?What was the quality of the toe joint ligaments and repair stability?You need to talk with the surgeon!
Re: Walking or running, you should obtain advice from your surgeon. However, you can do upper extremity exercises. Work out with dumbbells and in the gym with the weight machines to maintain upper body strength and avoid disuse atrophy. Exercising in the water is a very good way to rehabilitate following surgery, but ask your surgeon when it would be safe.
It takes 6-8 weeks for basic healing, then 2 more months for all of the inflammation to go away. Bunion surgery heals slowly. So, no exercise that involves you walking on your foot for a while. You can bike, but put the pressure on the pedal on your heel. Weight lifting is ok if you can keep pressure off of the surgical site. Swimming is ok if you are not required to wear a brace.
Hope it helps!!
Dr. Bose
Hope it helps!!
Dr. Bose
It depends on the bunion surgery and your bone hardness. Some with hard bone and mild corrections can return to activity at 6 weeks others 12 or more. In the meantime isometric and range of motion exercises should be ok with the direction of your surgeon
David Kay
David Kay
That depends on the type of surgery. For simple removal of a bump, it can be as soon as the wound is fully healed. Other procedures involve cutting bone (osteotomy), and therefore recovery is similar to healing a fracture. Weight bearing may be restricted, and exercise may be restricted for 2 to 3 months or more. Best to ask your doctor. Be specific about what exercise you are planning. Jot your questions down so you do the best to get a great result.
I would probably wait at least 4-6 weeks do do anything that involves your foot. Upper body is fine right away
