Post-Surgery Foot Pain Inquiry
I am a 35-year-old woman weighing 165 pounds and underwent Morton’s Neuroma surgery a week and a half ago. In addition to this procedure, I also had platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment and a scar debridement in the same area of my foot. For the past eight days, I have been using a walking boot. Currently, I am experiencing intense burning sensations in my foot. Is this a typical reaction? Could it simply be nerve-related, or should I reach out to my surgeon? For some context, I had another surgery nine months ago where they released my peroneal nerve in my knee, as well as my tibial nerve and plantar fascia in my foot. The recent PRP and debridement were specifically targeted at my original surgical scar. Since two days post-surgery, I have been managing pain solely with Tylenol and a daily dose of 325 mg of aspirin. The sensations in my foot fluctuate drastically; it alternates between feeling completely numb and incredibly hot, akin to being placed in an oven. This discomfort occurs whether I am inside the boot or not, and regardless of whether I am standing or lying down. I am quite familiar with nerve pain, given my medical history, but this feels different—affecting my entire foot, including the top, bottom, and toes. Aside from some bruising, swelling, and a slight orange discoloration from the iodine that I can't wait to wash off, the visible parts of my foot seem normal. However, since it's wrapped up to my ankle, my view is limited. I am resisting the urge to unwrap the bandage for relief, as I have a follow-up appointment in three days and want to avoid complicating the healing process before then.
Answers (1)
8/3/2025, 12:20:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about intense burning sensations following your recent surgery, especially with your medical history. While some discomfort can be common after foot surgery, the symptoms you're describing—fluctuating numbness and intense burning—may indicate nerve involvement, particularly given your previous surgeries related to nerve release.
Explanation: After surgeries like Morton’s Neuroma and PRP treatments, it's not unusual for patients to experience various sensations, including pain, burning, and numbness, as the nerves heal and adjust post-operatively. However, based on your description of symptoms affecting the entire foot and fluctuating between different sensations, this may not be typical for your recovery phase.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of when the burning sensations are the worst, any triggers, and any other changes or signs in your foot. Note any swelling or increasing pain as these could provide valuable information.
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Pain Management: Continue taking Tylenol as needed, but avoid exceeding the recommended dose. As your discomfort seems significant, consider discussing potential adjustments to your pain management with your surgeon, especially during your follow-up appointment.
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Avoid Unwrapping the Bandage: It’s wise to refrain from unwrapping the bandage before your appointment. This will help ensure your foot stays protected as it heals.
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Prepare for Your Follow-Up Appointment: Write down all your symptoms, their frequency, and any concerns you have. This will assist your surgeon in understanding your healing process better during your visit.
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Immediate Concerns: If you notice any of the following signs before your appointment—severe swelling, inability to move your foot, significant changes in skin color (other than the iodine), worsening pain, or signs of infection (fever, increased warmth, pus)—consider reaching out to your surgeon sooner than planned.
While waiting for your appointment, maintain a positive mindset, and remember that healing can be an unpredictable yet gradual process. Your concerns are valid, and your healthcare team is there to help you through this recovery phase.
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