Question
Dr. Katz,
I was in a head on collision in May of 2005.  I had many injuries, the worst I am still dealing with is my Left foot had been crushed (folded over in half) and my ankle broken.  I have had many surgeries and am still in horrible pain.  I can not live my life they way I used to.  I have another surgery coming up in May to remove bone the doctor thinks is infected and to remove hardware from an ostiotomy.  My ankle hurts very badly in the front, I don't think this surgery is going to help with my pain.  How do I find a doctor that specializes in this type of injury?  I trust my doctor, but I believe he has done all he can do for me, I am desperate!  I used to be a very active person, I can hardly keep up day to day now.

Answer
Hi Erika,

With such a severe foot injury, there are many considerations.  If you have a bone infection then it is important to have the bone removed or treated.

With regard to the foot pain there are several options.  One is cryosurgery.  This will freeze the sensory nerves and help with prolonged pain relief.  Another option would be a spinal cord stimulator.  When these give relief the relief is dramatic. Typically the stimulator would be placed by a pain management specialist.

Where do you live?  Maybe I can help you find someone in your area.


Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com


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