Persistent Numbness After Ankle Surgery: Is It Nerve Damage? - Orthopedics

More Info

---

Persistent numbness after ankle surgery can indeed be a concerning symptom, and it raises important questions about potential nerve damage or other underlying issues. Given your history of a severe ankle injury, surgical intervention, and subsequent symptoms, it’s essential to consider several factors that could contribute to your ongoing numbness and discomfort.

First, it is important to understand that during ankle surgery, especially in cases involving fractures and the insertion of hardware like screws or plates, there is a risk of nerve injury. The ankle is surrounded by several important nerves, including the superficial peroneal nerve and the tibial nerve, which can be affected during surgical procedures. If these nerves are compressed, stretched, or cut during surgery, it can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the affected area.
In your case, the fact that you experience numbness and a tingling sensation when the area is touched suggests that there may be some nerve involvement. This could be due to scar tissue formation around the nerves, which can happen after surgery. Scar tissue can create adhesions that may irritate or compress nearby nerves, leading to persistent symptoms.
Additionally, the timeline of your symptoms is significant. You mentioned that the numbness began six months after the removal of the hardware and has persisted for two years. This prolonged duration of symptoms could indicate that the nerve damage, if present, may not be resolving on its own. It is also worth noting that psychological factors can contribute to the perception of pain and numbness, especially if there is a history of trauma or surgery. However, given the physical nature of your symptoms, it is more likely that there is a physiological basis for your discomfort.

You also mentioned having psoriasis and suspecting arthritis. Psoriasis can be associated with psoriatic arthritis, which may lead to joint pain and inflammation. While this condition primarily affects the joints, it can also lead to peripheral neuropathy in some cases. However, the localized nature of your symptoms, particularly around the surgical site, suggests that the numbness is more likely related to the surgical intervention rather than a systemic condition.

To address your concerns, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist or an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in nerve injuries. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) to assess the function of the nerves in your ankle and foot. These tests can help determine if there is any nerve damage and the extent of it.

In terms of treatment, if nerve damage is confirmed, options may include physical therapy to improve mobility and reduce symptoms, medications to manage pain, or in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve nerve compression. If scar tissue is the culprit, procedures to remove or alleviate the scar tissue may be considered.

In conclusion, persistent numbness after ankle surgery can be indicative of nerve damage, particularly if it is localized to the surgical site. It is essential to seek a thorough evaluation from a medical professional to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and to discuss potential treatment options. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.