Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 8/15/2009

Question
I had my r hip replaced about 2 1/2 yrs ago. Since the surgery I have experienced a strange sensation in the ball of my foot down to my toes. The reason I am writing is that the pain and stinging is getting worse. I have read - maybe it could be caused by stretching my leg for the surgery. This leg was about 2" shorter than my l leg because of the severity of my hip damage. It was like that for about 5-6 years. I walked on my tiptoes because I couldn't straighten out my leg and I couldn't put my full weight on it either.
So my question is - does it sound like nerve damage due to the THR and what can I do to relieve the pain/irritation? It always bothers me most when I am trying to relax to fall asleep. It's not necessarily painful (the bad hip was painful) but it is irritating and does hurt a little. Is further surgery an option to correct this problem?

Answer
Hi Linda,

I do not feel further surgery will correct this problem or is needed. The issue about stretching your leg etc... more then likely has more to do with the sciatic nerve.

Whether or not it is nerve damage to due to the THR I am unsure of but with nerve pain like this you may have to try a couple of different options.

1. Make sure both legs are of equal length now. They should be after surgery.

2. I would see a neurologist or follow-up with my orthopedic surgeon about this between the two of them one of them should be able to correct it or get to the bottom of it.

3. You could try some gentle stretching exercises but I would suggest you get that physical instruction from  physical therapist who can guide you hands on with it due to the THR.

It would be tought to give you a definitive answer without further examination by a doctor but this is something they see and may be able to assit you with some sort of light  medication if needed.

Regards
Richard Haynes PTA/CPT
Punta Gorda, Florida