Foot Numbness and Pain After Ankle Injury: Causes and Duration

Numbness in the foot?

Hello, seven months ago I had a fibula distal fracture and a deltoid ligament tear in my ankle, which required surgical treatment.
The swelling in my heel has subsided, and the bone has healed.
However, I still experience occasional sharp pain in the dorsum of my foot, especially during weather changes, and it feels tingly when touched.
Could this be due to nerve damage from the initial car accident injury? How long might this phenomenon last?

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/11

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

At that time, there may have been some damage to the peripheral nerves, which should improve; it might take a little longer, generally a few months.

Reply Date: 2005/06/11

More Info

After an ankle injury, particularly one involving a fibula fracture and ligament damage, it is not uncommon to experience lingering symptoms such as foot numbness and pain. These symptoms can be attributed to several factors, including nerve damage, soft tissue injury, and the body's healing process.

Firstly, the injury you sustained—specifically the fibula fracture and the rupture of the triangular ligament—can lead to complications that affect the surrounding nerves. The ankle is a complex joint with numerous nerves running through it, including the superficial peroneal nerve and the deep peroneal nerve. If these nerves were compressed or injured during the accident or subsequent swelling, it could result in sensations of numbness, tingling, or pain in the foot. This phenomenon is often referred to as neuropathic pain, which can occur when nerves are damaged or irritated.

Additionally, the healing process itself can contribute to ongoing discomfort. After a fracture, the body goes through a series of stages to repair the bone and surrounding tissues. During this time, inflammation can persist, leading to pain and sensitivity in the affected area. Weather changes can exacerbate these symptoms, as many individuals with prior injuries report increased pain or discomfort during cold or damp conditions. This is often due to changes in barometric pressure, which can affect the fluid in joints and lead to increased sensitivity.

The duration of these symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience improvement within a few weeks to months, while others may have persistent symptoms for a year or longer. Factors that influence recovery include the severity of the injury, the effectiveness of rehabilitation, and individual differences in healing. It is crucial to engage in a proper rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the ankle, improve range of motion, and address any proprioceptive deficits.

If you are experiencing persistent pain and numbness, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist or a pain management specialist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies, to assess for any underlying nerve damage or other complications. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications for nerve pain (such as gabapentin or pregabalin), and in some cases, interventions like corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing—foot numbness and pain after an ankle injury—could be due to nerve involvement, ongoing inflammation, or the body's healing response. While some individuals may recover fully, others may experience prolonged symptoms. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action for your recovery.

Similar Q&A

Post-Car Accident Complications: Managing Leg Pain and Numbness

Hello, I would like to ask about my condition. About 5 or 6 years ago, I had a car accident that resulted in fractures of both bones in my right calf. They have healed well, as confirmed by an X-ray. However, since the injury, I have experienced numbness in the sole of my foot, w...

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
After a fracture, experiencing numbness and pain may indicate nerve damage. It is advisable to consult a neurologist to determine whether a nerve conduction study is necessary.

Understanding Ankle Fracture Recovery: Managing Numbness and Discomfort

I would like to ask if it is normal to feel a tingling or uncomfortable sensation in the sole of my foot six weeks after my tibia and fibula fracture. Additionally, how can I improve this tingling discomfort?

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics
Hello: You have a tibia and fibula fracture, and you are experiencing numbness in the sole of your foot. Are there any other associated conditions? Additionally, does the numbness occur only when you get out of bed, or does it also happen while lying flat? Is the fracture located...

Post-Surgery Nerve Pain: Understanding Ankle Fracture Complications

Hello Doctor, I am writing on behalf of my father. He is 56 years old. Last September, he had an accident while riding an electric scooter and fell into a ditch, resulting in a fracture above his left ankle. My father works as a mechanic, and to speed up his recovery and ensure s...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: You mentioned that your father is experiencing peripheral nerve damage. If the peripheral neuropathy is caused by nerve compression, it may exhibit the following characteristics: 1. The pain is described as burning or electric-like. 2. Symptoms have a specific dermatomal d...

Will Numbness in My Foot Heal on Its Own After an Injury?

I recently sprained my right ankle and have been taking muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory injections, which are helping me recover. However, I am experiencing a tingling sensation on the right side of my right big toe and the left side of my right index finger, while the lef...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Ah-Jie: You mentioned experiencing a tingling sensation on the right side of your right big toe and the left side of your right index toe, which may suggest a possible injury to the deep peroneal nerve. The pathway of the deep peroneal nerve begins at the lateral aspect o...