TX
A 18-year-old male asked:

Im in a lot of pain after surgery on my tybia in my knee is it normal to have swelling in my ankle and foot?

3 doctor answers5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Bac Nguyen
Family Medicine 25 years experience
Quite commonly seen: Surgery anywhere on the leg will likely result in some pain, and swelling in the lower area, espcially foot/ankle because these are the lowest parts of body that are influenced by gravity. Surgery disrupts the normal chanels of fluid/blood flow and thus fluid from lower areas has trouble moving up against gravity, thus swelling. Leg elevation helps. If severe pain/swellig, consult doc. Good luck.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Randy Lisch
Podiatry 40 years experience
Yes: As the tibia is healing from the surgery, it will typically cause swelling from the knee downward. See your surgeon if this becomes worse or painful.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Jeffrey Kass
Podiatry 30 years experience
Yes: Not uncommon, elevate your foot, apply ice to the region of surgery and if you are in "a lot of pain", you need to call your surgeon and let him know. Feel better.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Dec 9, 2013

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.