Soft tissue in foot

I have had two surgeries on my left foot.  The first surgery was to remove a bunion.  After the healing from the surgery my big toe and the toe next to it were approximately a half an inch apart, causing a lot of pain when I wore dressy shoes.  I decided to have another surgery to fix the problem.  Again after the surgery my toes were very wide apart.  My surgeon has me taping my toes so that the big toe and the next toe come together.  He said the soft tissue in the foot after being taped for 2 months would eventually bring the toes together.  I have been taping the foot for about a month now.  My question is, once I stop taping the toes together will they go back to their original state?  If the taping doesn't work, the doctor wants to try another procedure.  At this point, I'll probably not do anything, especially with this doctor.  

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Taping and also foot exercises may help you treating this conservatively. This can be due to the gap after the surgery.

I would suggest you to go for a second opinion with a podiatrist and keep surgery as the last option.

Take care!

[bbuzz]

Thanks, I'll keep on taping and hope for the best.

[bbuzz]

I forgot to ask.  What kind of exercise do you suggest that might help my toes get back together?  Thanks.  

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

You would need to follow up with a physiotherapist but I can suggest you some exercises.

1) Begin mild, assisted range of motion exercises. You can download other exercises on online search engines. Grasp the big toe near the base of the toe close to the big toe joint. Gently flex the toe upward until resistance is met and mild discomfort is experienced. Then hold for approximately 10 seconds. Perform this 3 times; then flex the toe downward in the same maneuver for 3 sets of 10 seconds each. Then do this unassisted and increase for 6 sets and till you are able to perform them completely. 2) Begin gravity assisted and weight bearing exercise programs after you can perform the initial exercises. This is performed by lifting the heel up, keeping the big toe on the ground and using body weight to force flexion at the toe. Stand on the toes for approximately 10 seconds at a time as tolerated. You can increase the intensity.

If you have any other complications follow up with an orthopedician.

Take care!

[bbuzz]

Thank you for the exercise.  I'll start them today.  You are the best.