Tourniquet damage to foot after TKR?

Bones, joints and muscles
1

Hi everyone.

8 weeks post op and seen consultant today.  He's signed me off as is happy with bend, straightening etc, but one question I asked was the problem I have in my foot.

I'd describe it as a burning, tingling feeling almost pins and needles, almost numb. It happens when my foot has been on the floor whilst in sitting position on a chair.  After a while it feels like my foot will blow up, despite moving around occasionally.  It's not confined to any specific part, just feels like the whole foot.  I can't go back to work because of it as it is so uncomfortable (and if i have to sit for above an hour it affects me overnight and the following day).

Anyway, he said he didn't know what the sensations are and I asked if it could be nerve trapped/damaged and he said 'could be anything, could be referred pain from my back'. (Now I don't believe it's that as I have never had a problem with my back at all) but then he mentioned 'or could be from the tourniquet' before changing the subject.

I didn't think about what he had said until afterwards but the bits and bobs I've turned up since on Google seem to confirm this.  However, most are written in medical terms which I don't understand!

Has this happened to others, and if so, is it permanent, or how long did it last? and is there anything that can be done to ease it? My husband suggested a tens machine - not sure if this is appropriate but if it is, does it go on the foot, or where the tourniquet was placed?

Sorry for all the questions but any help would be appreciated.

Thank you, from one of the Susan's!

2

I don't  have a numb foot, but a complete right side of the knee about 4 x 8" inches I'm assuming it's nerve damage, I could stab it , and I wouldn't feel it, not that I'd want to. I heard you can get something called dropped foot, bit not sure what that  involves , sounds like your surgeon was being very  evasive  , I will keep an eye for other people's replies , with interest, best of luck.x

3

I would get a second opinion from a reputable Orthopaedic. Ask around & get a referral from your GP.

4

Both my feet are like this. . a sort of cross between numb, tingling, burning . . not actual pain though.  I keep meaning to go for an EMG, as I wonder about tarsal tunnel syndrome, which is like carpal tunnel syndrome but in the ankle. . . the neurologist seemed to think it had nothing to do with the operation, but as it started the day after, i tend to disagree with him!!!  I haven't found any way to improve it, except ice, which helps while I'm using it but doesn't seem to have any permanent effect.