Question 1

i just had big toe fusion surgery on march 11 (2 weeks ago).  what is the normal recovery protocol ?

i have been nwb for 2 wks. what's next ?

Accepted Answer

Fusion Hallux: It depends if you got a fusion or arthrodesis of the ipj or mpj of big toe. If it is an ipj, then i nonweightbear my patients 6 weeks in a cam boot. Mpj fusion is a maximum of 12 weeks in a cam boot. With both fusions i dispense a bone stimulator for maximum results.

Question 2

will i need orthotics after big toe fusion?

Accepted Answer

Hard to say: Without knowing more, but i doubt it, unless the cause for why you needed a fusion in the first place is related to foot function.

Question 3

how long after a big toe fusion surgery does it take for the pain to go away in the toe?

Accepted Answer

It takes a year : Or so to fully recover from any major injury or surgery.  Basic healing from a fusion takes about 2 months, but there is often still some "nuisance" aches and pains thereafter, gradually subsiding over several more months.

Question 4

big toe fusion back in 2015. my toes are running into each other and causing pain. dr. says i need to have it moved over. hardware has to be removed?

Accepted Answer

See details: Get another opinion from an orthopedist who specializes in foot and ankle arthritis. It is impossible to offer specific advice without being able to examine the foot and review x rays.

Question 5

after a big toe fusion can i run or wear heels ever again?

Accepted Answer

Definitely: As long as your surgeon positions your toe with  enough motion to spring forward, running is not a problem.  Your heel height may need to fall under an inch and a half.

Question 6

had big toe fusion on oct 14th and toe is now pointing upwards and crossing over second toe. is this normal outcome?

Accepted Answer

Toe fusion: The outcome that you describe is not a typical after having a fusion of your big toe. I would call her surgeon for further evaluation.

Question 7

i have had a big toe fusion operation. will i eventually be able to run.?

Accepted Answer

I believe you : Will. Even though that joint will no longer bend, you should be able to run. Incidentally, I am surprised a question like that was not answered or asked prior to your surgery.

Question 8

why cast and crutches for 6 weeks after big toe fusion surgery ?  definitely not what was discussed in advance ....

Accepted Answer

Stable fusion: Bones need to be held together and stabilized in order to fuse together as a single bone. Moving bones don't fuse.  Depending on the method that was used to stabilize your big toe joint fusion site, it is not unusual for crutches - and perhaps a cast - to be used for some period of time during your postoperative healing course.

Question 9

how does someone walk/ stand 
a lot after big toe fusion ?  my job requires this and i am concerned that i won't be able to do it.

Accepted Answer

A toe fusion : Would not cause an issue with long term standing...One would stand like anyone else without a toe fusion. It should not be an issue.

Question 10

i had big toe fusion surgery in early march .... 6 weeks in cast.  what is purpose of boot after that ?  how do you walk in a boot ?

Accepted Answer

Waking boot: Most doctors place their patients in what's called a cam walker which is designed for you to walk in to make sure the fusion is well healed. In addition if in a cast and crutches then you need to get used to placing weight on it again.

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Doctor answers about:

Big toe fusion recovery time

A member asked:

I just had big toe fusion surgery on march 11 (2 weeks ago). what is the normal recovery protocol ? i have been nwb for 2 wks. what's next ?

A member asked:

Will i need orthotics after big toe fusion?

A member asked:

How long after a big toe fusion surgery does it take for the pain to go away in the toe?

A member asked:

Big toe fusion back in 2015. my toes are running into each other and causing pain. dr. says i need to have it moved over. hardware has to be removed?

A member asked:

After a big toe fusion can i run or wear heels ever again?

A member asked:

Had big toe fusion on oct 14th and toe is now pointing upwards and crossing over second toe. is this normal outcome?

A member asked:

I have had a big toe fusion operation. will i eventually be able to run.?

A member asked:

Why cast and crutches for 6 weeks after big toe fusion surgery ? definitely not what was discussed in advance ....

A member asked:

How does someone walk/ stand a lot after big toe fusion ? my job requires this and i am concerned that i won't be able to do it.

A member asked:

I had big toe fusion surgery in early march .... 6 weeks in cast. what is purpose of boot after that ? how do you walk in a boot ?

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