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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Had A Hip Replacement. Now Have A Drop Foot. Leg Is Swollen. Have Shooting Pain In Toes. Wearing A Brace Under Heel. On Walker, Cannot Sleep.

I had a hip replacement in my right leg the last week of June 2013. I now have a drop foot, my leg is swollen and I have shooting pains in my toes, foot, up the back of my leg. I am wearing a brace that fits under my heel and runs up the back of my leg. I am on a walker and cannot sleep in my bed because I cannot control what my leg does.
Will I ever get better Irma Stirtzinger
Tue, 5 Nov 2013
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement,  's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.

It is not uncommon for the sciatic nerve to get injured during total hip replacement surgery, which results in foot drop.

The extent and severity of the damage to the sciatic nerve should be established by Nerve conduction studies and EMG. If the nerve injury is only partial, then there is a chance for recovery. If it is a complete transection of the nerve, no spontaneous recovery can be expected. In such a case, either a nerve repair or tendon transfer surgeries are indicated.

So, I suggest you to consult a neurophysician for a detailed evaluation and correct diagnosis. The management depends on the severity of injury to the nerve.

Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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Had A Hip Replacement. Now Have A Drop Foot. Leg Is Swollen. Have Shooting Pain In Toes. Wearing A Brace Under Heel. On Walker, Cannot Sleep.

Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. It is not uncommon for the sciatic nerve to get injured during total hip replacement surgery, which results in foot drop. The extent and severity of the damage to the sciatic nerve should be established by Nerve conduction studies and EMG. If the nerve injury is only partial, then there is a chance for recovery. If it is a complete transection of the nerve, no spontaneous recovery can be expected. In such a case, either a nerve repair or tendon transfer surgeries are indicated. So, I suggest you to consult a neurophysician for a detailed evaluation and correct diagnosis. The management depends on the severity of injury to the nerve. Hope this information is helpful. Good day