The single most common question patients ask is “When will I be back to normal?” Honest answer: it depends on the procedure. Here are realistic timelines for the procedures I do most.
Bunion Correction (Including Lapiplasty®)
- Days 0–7: Surgical boot, heel-weight-bearing with assistance
- Weeks 2–6: Progressive weight-bearing, continued boot
- Weeks 6–10: Transition to wide athletic shoe; swelling slowly improves
- Months 3–6: Most activities back; impact activity returning
- Months 6–12: Running, demanding sport; final swelling resolution
Ankle Ligament Repair (Brostrom)
- Weeks 0–2: Boot, protected weight-bearing
- Weeks 2–6: Brace, structured rehab begins
- Weeks 6–12: Strength and proprioception
- Months 3–4: Return to running and most sport
- Months 5–6: Cutting and contact sport
Achilles Tendon Repair
- Weeks 0–2: Boot, non-weight-bearing in many protocols
- Weeks 2–6: Progressive weight-bearing in heel-lifted boot
- Weeks 6–12: Out of boot, structured rehab
- Months 4–6: Running progression
- Months 6–9: Return to demanding sport
A Word About Swelling
Swelling lasts much longer than pain. Even at 3 months, an operative foot is usually still swollen at the end of the day. Full resolution often takes 6–12 months. This is normal and not a sign of a problem.
