Thriving After Big Toe Joint Fusion: My 1.5-Year Post-Op Reflections

Dr. Mindi here—and today I’m reflecting with immense gratitude and excitement. I’m now approximately a year and a half post-op from my right Big Toe Joint Fusion, and I’m struck by how much I can do today, completely free of restrictions.

This journey has been both humbling and empowering, and I want to share it in hopes of encouraging others who may be considering—or recovering from—this transformative procedure.

A Look Back: 9 Months Post-Op

I recently came across a video I shared around the 9-month mark after my surgery. (Okay—I said it was 10 months, but who’s really keeping track? 😉) In it, I demonstrate some of the exercises I regularly perform—many of which patients fear they’ll never do again after a Big Toe Joint Fusion due to a bunion complicated by arthritis.

The truth is, with the right surgical approach—one that positions the toe properly in all three anatomical planes—and a focused, functional recovery strategy, the possibilities are incredible. I was already back to doing a full spectrum of movements by 3 months post-op, and now, over a year later, I’m thriving.

Function Over Fear: What’s Really Possible

The biggest takeaway I want to emphasize is this: There are essentially no exercise limitations after a well-executed Big Toe Joint Fusion. From squats and lunges to running and resistance workouts, it all comes down to proper technique and dedication to recovery.

This video was recorded after an intense (and fantastic) workout at F45 Training in Ankeny. I was lifting, jumping, running, and pushing myself without a second thought about my toe. That freedom is priceless.

I can now wear so many more types of shoes comfortably—something I couldn’t do before surgery. With my joint no longer becoming inflamed or catching, daily footwear feels entirely different. I can easily wear a 1.5 to 2-inch wedge without any difficulty.

I never wore high heels before my procedure, so I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything taller. But even if I had, I can’t imagine giving up the freedom I now have—the ability to move, exercise, and live pain-free—just for the sake of wearing higher heels. Comfort, function, and long-term joint health are far more valuable.

Encouragement for Anyone Facing Surgery

If you're dealing with painful arthritis or deformity of the big toe joint—commonly seen with advanced bunions—know that fusion doesn’t mean limitation. In fact, when done right, it can open the door to a more active, pain-free lifestyle than you ever thought possible.

As always, our team at the Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa is here to help you understand your diagnosis and walk confidently through your treatment journey. We specialize in bunion surgery, including advanced Triplanar Big Toe Joint Fusion, and we believe in empowering you with both knowledge and outcomes you can trust.

Keep moving, stay strong, and never underestimate the power of recovery done right.

Here are some additional video links from our Facebook page that were part of my "vlog" but not posted on the website previously.

1. Push Up Challenge (11 days) post op 😂💪🏻: https://www.facebook.com/FootAnkleCenterIowa/videos/240240562411505/

2. Back to the office full time: https://www.facebook.com/FootAnkleCenterIowa/videos/6716648198455018

3. Beach walking for the first time post-op:

   
   

   4. First attempt at running about 10 weeks post op:

   
   
   
   
   
   

With wellness in every step,

Dr. Mindi Dayton