The two-week mark following bunion surgery represents a significant point in the healing journey. At this stage, individuals often transition from the immediate post-operative phase to a period focused on continued recovery and gradual progression. Understanding what to expect helps manage the healing process and set realistic expectations for mobility and comfort.
What is Normal at Two Weeks
At two weeks after bunion surgery, some pain and discomfort are expected, though it should be manageable with prescribed medication. Patients experience a dull ache, with occasional sharp twinges, especially when moving the foot or attempting weight-bearing. This pain results from the ongoing healing of bone and soft tissues.
Swelling and bruising are common at this stage, but they should be gradually reducing. The foot may appear puffy, and discoloration from bruising can persist around the incision site and extending towards the toes. These signs indicate the body’s natural healing processes are still active.
The incision site at two weeks should be closed, though it may appear red or slightly raised. Stitches are removed around this time, and thin adhesive bandages may be applied. Sensory changes, such as numbness around the incision or in the toes, are also common and generally temporary as nerve endings recover.
Managing Your Recovery
Wound care at the two-week mark involves keeping the incision clean and dry. After stitch removal, new dressings, such as thin adhesive strips, may be applied to protect the healing skin. Patients are usually advised on cleaning the area and when water exposure is safe, often with instructions to avoid direct soaking.
Pain management remains important, and patients should adhere to the prescribed medication schedule. Non-pharmacological methods, such as elevating the foot above heart level and applying ice packs wrapped in a towel, can help reduce both pain and swelling. Consistent elevation, for example, 55 minutes out of every hour, is often recommended to minimize fluid accumulation.
Maintaining proper hygiene while protecting the surgical site is also important. Guidance for showering or bathing typically involves keeping the foot dry, possibly by using a waterproof cover over the dressings. This careful approach helps prevent infection and promotes optimal healing of the incision.
Activity and Mobility Considerations
At two weeks post-bunion surgery, weight-bearing status varies depending on the surgical procedure and the surgeon’s instructions. Some patients may be allowed partial weight-bearing on the heel, while others may be restricted to no weight-bearing. Assistive devices like crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter are commonly used to facilitate safe movement and protect the surgical site.
Mobility within the home should be cautious to prevent falls. Navigating stairs may require specific techniques, such as leading with the unoperated leg when going up and the operated leg when going down, or using a seated scooting method. Continued rest and elevation of the foot remain important to control swelling and support the healing process.
Driving is generally restricted at this stage, especially if the surgery was on the right foot or if pain medication impairs reaction time. Physical therapy may begin around this time, focusing on gentle toe and ankle movements to improve circulation and prevent stiffness. These early exercises help prepare the foot for increased activity in subsequent weeks.
Recognizing Potential Concerns
While pain and swelling are normal, certain signs warrant immediate contact with the surgical team. Increased redness, warmth, pus, or a foul odor from the incision site can indicate an infection. A fever, particularly if it exceeds 38°C, or chills, are also strong indicators of infection.
Excessive or worsening pain not alleviated by prescribed medication should be reported, as it could signal an underlying issue. A significant increase in swelling or bruising, if accompanied by severe pain, also requires prompt medical attention. These symptoms might suggest complications like a hematoma or other circulatory problems.
New or persistent numbness, tingling, or any noticeable color changes in the toes could indicate nerve irritation or compromised blood flow, and should be communicated to the surgeon. If surgical hardware was used and appears to be shifting or protruding, this is an immediate concern that requires professional assessment.