Bunions are bumps which form on the side of the big toe. While they are typically harmless, they can become painful over time, making it difficult to wear certain shoes or perform daily activities without discomfort. For this reason, some patients may be recommended for foot surgery to have bunions removed. If you’re a candidate for this procedure, here are some post-surgery exercises your podiatrist may recommend to facilitate healing.

How to Relive Discomfort After Foot Surgery

1. Air Letters

Recovering from toe surgery can also take its toll on your ankle and foot. One way to exercise these areas is to practice “writing” letters in the air, imagining your big toe as a pencil. Go through the alphabet, swiveling the ankle and flexing the foot to precisely mimic each character. You can also spell out words and names to break up the pattern.

2. Manipulation

After your podiatrist has cleared you for activity, they may suggest performing basic manipulations. These movements will help regain mobility in the toe area. One simple way to encourage range of motion is to gently grab hold of the big toe near the base, then bend it downward and upward, holding for ten seconds in each direction. Repeat the exercises three times in each direction, performing the set a few times each day.

3. Resistance Band

Rubber exercise bands can be purchased at most sporting good and big box stores or ordered online. By placing the foot inside the band, with the band running under the arch of the foot, you can guide your ankle in different directions to keep the joints limber. As with the air letters, this exercise facilitates mobility throughout the entire foot and ankle region.

If you have bunions or any other foot condition and would like to explore foot surgery as a solution, Podiatry Associates of Rochester can help. With three locations in Monroe County, NY, their foot and ankle specialists excel in treating a broad range of injuries and conditions through non-invasive treatments and surgical procedures as needed. Learn more by visiting their website, or call (585) 342-8700 to schedule an appointment.