Why is the bottom of my foot numb after a total ankle replacement surgery?

Numbness in Foot: It could be a number of factors that go along with the big picture of total ankle replacement. It may be numbness that has been present for a long time that has gone un-noticed b/c of the pain in your ankle joint. It may also be due to post-operative swelling at the surgical site. I would discuss the numbness with your surgeon, continue with physical therapy and give the numbness time to resolve.

Couple of things: It is possible that the nerve was injured during the surgery or that there is swelling around the nerve. It would be helpful to know how long ago the surgery was.

Numbness: The nerve can be damaged.Swelling after surgery can cause compression on the nerve as well.

Possible Nerve Issue: Dr. Parekh is absolutely correct. The nerve that supplies the majority of the bottom of your foot is the tibial nerve. This nerve is in the area where the total ankle is inserted. Damage to the nerve can happen from the surgery. Also continued swelling from the surgery may be affecting the sensation you have at the bottom of your foot although the nerve itself may not be damaged. If you have not already i would seek the care of an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon. One in your area can be found at www.Aofas.Org.

Many reasons: Dysfunction of the nerve to the bottom of your foot can occur after a total ankle replacement. It maaybe due to the use of a tourniquet, swelling of the ankle after the surgery,the postop splint or a direct injury to the nerve. Sometimes the surgery brings out an underlying tarsal syndrome Regardsless the numbness usually goes away in1-4 weeks. Speak with your surgeon about it.