Question
Hi there, I am 22 years old and my orthopedist believes I may be
suffering from a high ankle sprain with nerve damage due to falling down
stairs. I have been having numbness in my big toe and the one next to it
since the injury about 6 weeks ago. My doctor has been unable to do an
mri due to the amount of swelling that is still present. I am not due to
see him for a few more weeks, but I have recently developed a new
symptom which is severe pins and needles when putting very light
pressure on the skin of the top of my foot. I have also noticed a small
hard bump has formed with no pain. I was wondering if you had any
insight as to what this may be and if I should be concerned? I have also
had several bouts of sciatica in years passed as well as some persistant
lower back swelling (not related to this current injury) I didn't know if
maybe these issues have something to do with the pins and needles and
numbness? Thank you for your time it is very much appreciated.

Answer
It doesn't ring a bell off hand, but seems to be out of line with your injury and especially your age.  You should get your back examined by an orthopedist or neurosurgeon to ensure there is no disc issue.  Injury to your back can lead to the sensations you are feeling.

All the best,
Andrew Schneider, DPM

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