Post-Surgery Foot Pain and Numbness After Femur Fracture: What to Expect

Q: Post-Surgery Foot Pain and Numbness After Femur Fracture: What to Expect

Hello： If you experience numbness and pain in the toes after a femoral fracture, there are usually two possibilities. <br>One is nerve damage at the time of injury, and the other is reflex sympathetic dystrophy. <br>It is advisable to visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for fur

Post-operative foot pain and numbness after femoral fracture surgery?

Doctor, I have a comminuted fracture in my thigh, and after the surgery, I've been experiencing numbness and tingling in my foot and toes (like an electric shock).
The skin is also painful to the touch, and this has been going on for two months, along with some swelling.
I had an acetabular fracture with severe displacement, but the function of my leg is almost normal post-surgery.
The pain and numbness in my foot started after the thigh was treated.
The latter was treated at a different hospital (Chung Shan Medical University), while the former did not address the foot issue.
Is this part of the recovery process?

Yongjin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/29

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello: If you experience numbness and pain in the toes after a femoral fracture, there are usually two possibilities.
One is nerve damage at the time of injury, and the other is reflex sympathetic dystrophy.
It is advisable to visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for further examination.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2016/04/29

More Info

Post-surgery foot pain and numbness after a femur fracture can be quite distressing and is not uncommon. After such significant trauma and surgical intervention, it is essential to understand the healing process and what to expect in terms of recovery.

Firstly, the symptoms you are experiencing—foot pain, numbness, and swelling—are often associated with nerve irritation or damage that can occur during the injury or surgery. The femur is a large bone, and fractures can lead to swelling and inflammation in the surrounding tissues, which may compress nerves and lead to sensations like tingling or electric shock-like pain. This is sometimes referred to as neuropathic pain, which can be particularly challenging to manage.

The fact that you are experiencing these symptoms two months post-surgery is significant. While some degree of pain and discomfort can be expected during the recovery phase, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by your healthcare provider. It is essential to monitor the nature of your pain—whether it is constant, intermittent, sharp, or dull—as this information can help your doctor determine the underlying cause.

Swelling (edema) is also a common post-operative issue, especially after lower limb surgeries. It can be exacerbated by prolonged sitting or standing, and it is crucial to manage it effectively. Elevating your leg, using compression stockings, and engaging in gentle movement can help reduce swelling. Physical therapy is often recommended to improve circulation and promote healing.

Regarding the numbness and pain in your foot, it is essential to consider that nerve recovery can take time. Nerves regenerate slowly, and it may take several months for sensations to normalize. However, if the numbness persists or worsens, it could indicate a more serious issue, such as nerve entrapment or damage that may require further intervention.

In terms of managing your pain, it is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They may recommend a combination of medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, or neuropathic pain medications like gabapentin or pregabalin, which can help with nerve pain. Additionally, physical therapy can be beneficial in addressing both pain and functional recovery.

It is also worth noting that psychological factors can play a role in pain perception. Anxiety and stress related to your injury and recovery can amplify pain experiences. Engaging in relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or cognitive-behavioral therapy may provide additional support during your recovery.

In conclusion, while some discomfort is expected after a femur fracture and subsequent surgery, persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation. Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon or a pain specialist can help ensure that your recovery is on track and that any complications are addressed promptly. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your recovery journey is important, and addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes in the long run.

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