At this moment I have a bunion caused by hallux valgus. It was advised to operate this using the so called lapides procedure. I hve not found much information on running after this procedure.
Does anyone have the experience of running IM distance races after this procedure?
Please help.
JAB
Hallux Valgus is a “bunion”, just the proper terminology for it.
The Lapidus procedure is a fusion (arthrodesis) of the base of the 1st metatarsal-cuneiform joint. It is generally utilized for more severe bunion deformities or when hypermobility of the 1st ray is the cause. It can also be the procedure of choice in a younger patient since the correction tends to last longer or be permanent. The drawback of the Lapidus procedure is a MUCH longer healing time that more distal procedures (i.e. Austin, Chevron, Akin, Reverdin, etc. procedure). You can walk with the other surgeries after in a boot - most surgeons will keep a Lapidus surgery in a cast, non weightbearing for about 6 weeks.
As always, get a couple of opinions regarding this kind of surgery.
Best of luck!
Thanks rroof,
But will it be possible to run marathons after this procedure?
JAB
I have arthrodesis done on both my feet, yes it is possible to run BUT! not fast and not comfortably sorry to say, you end up with a much shorter gait since you can’t roll up on your toes anymore, so you shuffle more than run. but it can be done.
Thanks rroof,
But will it be possible to run marathons after this procedure?
JAB
Yes, you can certainly be a distance runner after a Lapidus. The other poster had a great toe joint fusion (1st MPJ) which is a much different procedure and for different reasons. Again, this is what you need to discuss with your surgeon(s) and why a few opinions are always good. If one is contemplating surgery, the implication is that you are having issues running now anyway?
Yes, at this moment I have problems running and even cycling. Even the widest 2e/4e running-shoes are not wide enough for me.
Some days on short runs it’s okay, but certainly the long runs and speed work is causing trouble during and after workout.
Main reason for the lapidus procedure for me is hypermobility of the 1st ray. My surgeon prommised to discuss my case with other specialised surgeons and I use the time to get some more information on this subject. Good to hear that distance running is still possible afterwards. What are in your opinion the questions I should discuss with my surgeon?
Yes, at this moment I have problems running and even cycling. Even the widest 2e/4e running-shoes are not wide enough for me.
Some days on short runs it’s okay, but certainly the long runs and speed work is causing trouble during and after workout.
Main reason for the lapidus procedure for me is hypermobility of the 1st ray. My surgeon prommised to discuss my case with other specialised surgeons and I use the time to get some more information on this subject. Good to hear that distance running is still possible afterwards. What are in your opinion the questions I should discuss with my surgeon?
The number one question would be how many of these types of surgeries have you done! Nothing really to discuss with colleagues as a Lapidus is a pretty straightforward procedure that has stood the test of time (done for 30 years) for a hypermobile 1st ray/hallux valgus. Ask about realistic post-operative expectations of pain and weight bearing (most keep in a cast and non weightbearing) and for how long. Might want to ask what type of hardware he will be using (i.e. plate, screws, wires, etc.) and what he likes for physical therapy after, if any.
Thanks rroof!