When the cells and tissues in your toes dont get enough blood, they may be damaged and slowly die, causing them to turn purple or blue. What do you have to lose with just a phone call! Dont pick on any scabs on the affected skin or injured area. Wait at least three days before shaving the hair off the area. Wearing grade elastic compression stockings and elevating your leg may help eliminate the swelling. I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in This can cause bleeding shows up as a bruise. A type known as peripheral cyanosis, or acrocyanosis, primarily affects the hands and feet. I had a leg scan to check for clots and my veins are great. Concentrate on calf and ankle exercises to improve the muscle tone in your lower leg and ankle. A violent red, sometimes purple. It may travel to areas on your foot that werent operated on and may go up and down. Working on your feet all day can do a number on your feet, legs, and back. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, Cold temperatures can reduce circulation in your hands and feet, healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/postings/2013/12/120913_frostbite.php, aofas.org/footcaremd/conditions/diabetic-foot/Pages/Diabetic-Foot-Problems.aspx, cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/r/raynauds-phenomenon.html, merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/peripheral-arterial-disease/acrocyanosis, besancon-cardio.org/recommandations/insuf-chr.htm, Daniel Bubnis, M.S., NASM-CPT, NASE Level II-CSS, The Smart Girls Guide to Healthy, Happy Feet, Treatment Options for Peripheral Artery Disease. Apply an ice pack within 48 hours following an injury on your leg or feet. Just a crazy weird pain on the inside and side of my knee that has been there since surgery. PT on Friday for the first time--working on ROM. The exact cause of Covid toes is still unknown. Started physio yesterday, still have terrible pain and as soon as I put my foot down it goes a purplish color and swells with pain. Your feet tu You may have one or several arterial blockages in the lower legs. Small vessel disease occurs when the small arteries cant get enough oxygen to the heart. Bunion Surgery & Purple Foot! What you describe is normal for me at least. Thank you so much for making me feel better and more hopeful. Consultations on DoctorSpring are not a substitute for physical consultation with a doctor or to hospital services. Registered in England and Wales. If you have ischemic foot, it means your foot isnt getting an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood. While this is a slow process, I am also a very active person and got very down in the first few weeks without being able to even get up to the bathroom without the purple/swelling/pain. (female) Join Date: Jul 2005. I had all the classic signs of this disease and my Dr. and Physical Therapist missed it. Also when you are WBAT you will experience swelling and discomfort when the foot is not elevated. I walk pretty normal now, however, I do have a built up shoe now. Anyone has/had contracting kind of pain? I used a wheelchair for most of that, as I am pretty hopeless with crutches. How long did it take till it stopped? I jump around a bit on crutches but have to sit down and elevate fairly quickly. However, do not apply ice directly to the skin. If youre experiencing pain after an injury, a doctor may recommend rest and ice. The swelling will definitely go down, you're only early in your recovery. I am on week twelve post op and am using a airpump cam boot and dressing the remaining pressure sores which are responding to my home treatment. I I am now in a walking boot only because my other ER visit due to swelling and purple again put me in on the 26th I go back to see my ortho and were supposed to start trying to put light weight bearing and then an ankle brace and so forth so hopefully this purple will quit coming to my foot and I can continue with a full life once more. You may use this service to consult a specialty or for getting medical second opinion. For most people that means a target fasting blood sugar measurement of less than 100 milligrams per deciliter. When I am showering in the morning, it is incredibly purple. (1996). After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. Food choices that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes. If you have had the cast on for over 3 weeks, soak the area with warm water twice a day for 20 minutes. 2012-2020 - DoctorSpring. Is sleeping with socks on bad for you? did you have a lot of pain with your discoloration? The feet may turn red, blue, purple, or white. MEDNET Quality Board. Low-grade fevers that last after one week or those that are above 100.5 degrees at any time after surgery may not be normal. Learn tips for choosing the right shoes, stretching, and home care. Helped Over 500,000 patients with 98%+ satisfaction. The affected areas may also appear swollen and have cuts or bruises that don't heal properly. I did lots of physio which was essential as non weight bearing your muscles atrophy and t really helps to build up the muscles again. This could include toes. Often, both common symptoms are accompanied by dry, itchy, and tingly skin, cramps, shooting pain when standing, which only resolves when legs are elevated, veins becoming prominent, and wounds that leak fluid that doesnt seem to heal. Hence to built up shoe. Foot injuries can cause purple bruises. Regardless of the type of injury, you should consult a qualified podiatrist for proper care. Location: New York State. Such an injury will. Elevating your foot Make an ice pack by putting ice in a plastic bag and wrapping a cloth around it. A cast will also reduce swelling and pain. V glad to read these comments as now getting paranoid with friends saying it's taking so long and thinking I should be up and about by now.. i had surgery on my calcaneous 4 weeks ago tomorrow. I have been laid up here now 5 weeks, 4 weeks since surgery and I have been so worried about the swelling and discoloration, when the foot is down. Thank you so much for sharing your story and letting others like myself find comfort in knowing its just not me thats going through this. Just having foot turn purple does not mean you have it, but Poor circulation is not a good sign this far after surgery. I found that when walking after the surgery my right hip was in agony, it was discovered that my left leg was shorter than my right. My feet turn purple and now recently my legs tingle and lose feeling what is happening ? When circulation in your feet is healthy, cuts heal quickly and your skin retains its natural color. Ischemic foot can result from a buildup of cholesterol plaque in one of the main arteries supplying blood to your foot. I forget what it's called on my left foot and fractured my right ankle. Thank you both for your help. I lived in the chair until my Orthopedic surgeon told me differently. When blood clots develop in veins deep in your legs and dont resolve on their own (deep vein thrombosis or DVT), they may travel through your bloodstream and can reach your lung resulting in pulmonary embolism (PE). Reading this today has made the light at the end of the tunnel shine brighter. Because of supply chain shortages as well as staffing shortages particularly during the pandemic, many institutions extended the time between dressing changes for chronic wounds. Not being able to move around is really killing me as i'm very active. Hi, I'm 40 & approx. This causes your toes or feet to turn blue, purple, or gray. Please help, I am not sure what to do now! I notice when boot is off, primarily in the shower--my foot turns a lovely shade of purple. A good review of how blood sugars can become elevated and the harm that can do. Found that it helped a bit with my mood. They said if they had of seen me earlier I would have had pins and maybe a plate. A great review on the various causes of shin splints, along with treatment options. I had the surgery because after several arthroscopies, I got an infection in the bone. How? Nice to hear about some improvements. Injured feet can be difficult to treat and can limit your ability to walk or stand. Before such a drastic step is taken, the following treatments may be appropriate: In addition to proper control of blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and smoking cessation, you may need to take antiplatelet medications, such as aspirin. A foot fracture can occur from an accident, increased activity, or repetitive activity. Had an xray at the same time which they were happy with. Its a painless condition that usually causes no other noticeable symptoms. should i get this checked out? The following is a list of health concerns that can affect the circulation and color of your feet: Ischemia refers to a reduction in healthy blood flow in one or more arteries. You really need to see a doctor and get an exam and some blood Dr. Shaym Puppala and another doctor agree. Are you a top Doctor? Take care. So grateful for the testimonies here. Trust your instincts that something is wrong. Causes include frostbite and. Red or purple color shows increased blood flow at that area.This should go away with time as he continue to walk.You may apply an Ace bandage from foot to leg during weight bearing.This will check the swelling.Try to keep legs above a pillow or above the heart level & continue to pumping movements of toes. Feet turn purple when sitting and red when standing and laying. This condition is called the blue toe syndrome, sometimes also called occlusive vasculopathy or trash foot. Was bedridden and had complications of pressure sores from the splints and casts and was very discouraged. worry? xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Nine months is long enough that you should be just about pain free. All rights reserved. I would not wish this on my worst enemy! but the non injured foot feels perfectly normal. Pain like I have never experienced that I would have given birth 10 times over instead LOL Anyway long story short, government hospital messed up, I went to see a private surgeon and had surgery on the 23 May to basically redo the op, plate and pins removed and replaced correctly! Last medically reviewed on June 26, 2018. Thank you Andrew and all of you writing here. Yes: You are too young to have bad circulation but there are other causes of color changes. If your doctor suspects a fracture, X-rays are recommended to rule out a broken bone. my foot turns purple and also my very lower leg above my ankles! In serious cases, you may also feel pain when youre at rest. One day at work, two months after surgery, I noticed my foot had become unusually swollen and was turning a disturbing shade of purple. The key to preventing ischemic foot is to manage your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed Everytime i have to put my foot down it goes purple which makes it really uncomfortable. It's easy to do. jennifer85262 It has been 4 1/2 months since my ORIF surgery. For a partial tear: You may need surgery. In serious cases, nerve surgery that removes tiny nerves from around blood vessels in your affected feet or hands may help lessen the response to cold temperatures. 57 users are following. When you are experiencing foot discoloration after surgery, it could be caused by a medical condition known as purple toe syndrome. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain. Both conditions are often triggered by cold weather and both cause skin to turn blue or light purple. This article reviews the top 5 ways to increase your. 20MB size. Your doctor should discuss your treatment options with you. Elevate your foot above heart level and apply an ice pack when swelling occurs. My mindset improved dramatically around week 3.5 when I was able to start being more independent. The pain may last for a few days or weeks. If you experience swelling and pain in your foot, it is a good idea to see a doctor as soon as possible. Why do my feet turn blue when I am sitting. Here's everything you need to know about shoe fit, hygiene, and more. was just put in a boot. I thought by now that issue would have fixed itself. For instance, their feet turn purple when standing or sitting at a desk. should i be concerned? Avoid strenuous activities like sports unless your doctor says its finally okay. Has VAGINA CANDIDIASIS on suppository. I thank you for putting together this incredible website. Try our Symptom Checker Got any other symptoms? A bruise forms when small blood vessels in the foot are damaged by trauma. Did you go thru the pain of the nerves healing and if so how long did it last ? In some cases, a bruise may be mistaken for a broken toe. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. My foot feels better than it has in months. In serious cases, surgery may be appropriate to attach a blood vessel from another part of your body to the affected artery, creating a route for blood to bypass the narrowed section of the artery. you are all the best and I really appreciate every answer! I also still have pain on inner ankle. I have totally stopped looking for info online re my injury, it's too depressing. or venous problem. The affected areas may also appear swollen and have cuts or bruises that dont heal properly. Depending on how much bleeding there is after the injury can cause the foot to turn purple initially. We want the forums to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the forums are This will help reduce swelling and reduce bruising. Sprains, strains, or dropping something onto the foot can cause bruising, which tends to make the skin appear blue or purple. The blood will be absorbed by the tissues within two weeks. You should also stop smoking, as it can seriously harm your blood vessels. all my drs know. What is really upsetting me is the color my foot turns when it is down. The pain and swelling may be minimized by applying ice to the affected area. You will recover but it takes a long time. I had exact same feeling of screw coming out but was really cramp making my foot go in one direction. Horrid. I was concerned about the swelling and discoloration and all of you here have reassured me that this is normal and that it will go away eventually. And your site is so intelligently arranged. Reading your testamony really brightened my day a bit. The blood leaks out into the surrounding tissues, and remains visible until it is absorbed or cleared by the immune system. When theres too much pressure, it will cause damage to the nerves, blood vessels, tendons, and muscles in the area covered with your cast. I also have a sharp pain where I assume The screw is that is holding the bone together. How long after you've have foot surgery does that initial discoloration resolve? Sometimes doctors and nurses get a little insensitive, but it is their job to take care of you the patient. A good review of the possible benefits to taking glucosamine, chondroitin or MSM for arthritis. 2. A violent red, sometimes purple. I am ver sure its the wrong diagnosis. A sprained ankle may turn purple due to damage to the blood vessels that are located around the ankle. If you have leukocytoclastic vasculitis, it means the small blood vessels in your skin are inflamed. Bruises may take up to 2 weeks before they go away. No clots. Hi Carol, thank you! It was 5 weeks before I got an appointment to see specialist and had a back slab on while waiting, he put plaster on for 3 weeks and then I have to go back for scan and get a moon boot altered with an arch. My foot is still discolored (bluish). respect of any healthcare matters. Here's how it can affect your health. Check with your doctor when discoloration doesnt disappear and worsens with pain. Acrocyanosis can also affect your hands, causing the skin to turn blue or purple. appropriate medical assistance immediately. I spent 10 weeks in a recliner with my foot elevated. I'm already on the books but very restless. The two are different conditions, and they require different treatment. https://patient.info/forums/discuss/2-5-weeks-after-orif-and-foot-still-goes-purple-when-i-put-it-down--521514. Do not copy or redistribute in any form! I had a stupid fall off a step on the 27 April was taken by ambulance to the local government hospital where they diagnosed Trimaceolar fracture right and operated on the 28 April. My husband had the same procedure 10 yrs. All rights reserved. For instance, a very tight cast may damage your nerves, blood vessels, tendons, and muscles which results in discoloration. Anyone can develop it, but the condition usually begins in your teens or 20s. as being in breach of those terms. All Rights Reserved. to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. When you are experiencing foot discoloration after surgery, it could be caused by a medical condition known as purple toe syndrome. Let us know what they have to say. First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you. 9 months after bunionectomy the base of my middle toes have turned a dark color and wont go away. Was acctually thinking today that maybe i should as you said train my foot by having it down for longer periods. And my skin is not turning colors from the temperature. I'm concerned that like yourself the Dr who did my surgery didn't do it correctly. He said probably be another 12 weeks before I am getting around without anything. Reading on other sites are horror stories and glad I didn't look before surgery at pictures of extremely upsetting photos. but there are other causes of color changes. I had the same surgery almost 14 weeks ago. Andrew I too want to thank you for your email you have helped me already. ADD REPORTS/IMAGES (5 max, 20MB max each, Can be added/emailed later). 7 weeks off work now with no pay. The condition also usually affects women more often than men. Blood reaches. You can undergo physical therapy or follow your doctors advice on what exercises or stretches you can do to regain strength and mobility. A good review of the causes of warts and protective measures you can take to prevent developing them. -eko, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'foot_pain_explained_com-box-4','ezslot_1',801,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-foot_pain_explained_com-box-4-0'); Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation. Posted There are two types of Raynauds: primary and secondary. Because you havent been moving it normally following your injury or surgery, your body will have difficulty circulating the blood to and from your feet. Thanks again! Good luck with your recovery and absolutely commit to your PT. When you drop something on your foot or hit your leg hard into something, these cause small blood vessels under your skin to break. This is indicative, of the blood not wanting to go back to your heart. Even though i'm losing weight my legs swell badly and my feet turn purple. If nothing significant is causing your foot to turn purple, then expect it to eventually go away as you heal. Hi Angie, hope your recovery is progressing. I also have a sharp pain where I assume The screw is that is holding the bone together. Conservative treatment for VI may include wearing compression stockings, regular exercise and losing weight, and moving legs after standing or sitting for long periods. It could be a result of a neurological short circuit, age, weight, or medical history. Avoid keeping legs lower then heart level for long time. Aloha Andrew: I am so glad to have found this forum. I think they said no more than 10-15 minutes per hour. An internist is a good place to start. So so my question here, even tho I know I have asked before (sorry!) Don't remember any pain as was dosed up on pain meds. Cold from the ice could damage your skin. Usually, your feet, hands, ears, and face are most at risk. The treatments for these conditions usually involve medications or procedures to maintain healthy circulation. However, the procedure may be delayed to allow for the swelling to subside. Get prescriptions or refills through a video chat, if the doctor feels the prescriptions are medically appropriate. Sounds like there may a circulatory problem when your foot has weight on it. A blood clot in the leg can affect the veins that pump blood back to the heart, causing swelling. Your venous system is not working properly. Fortunately, if you have this symptom, its not life-threatening, and can be easily treated. First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. Dr. A. Holly Johnson, MD Assistant Attending Orthopaedic Surgeon Foot and Ankle Specialist 420 East 72nd Street New York, NY 10021 Tel: 212-203-0740 Fax: 212-202-4764 In order to properly assess your condition, a doctor should perform a thorough exam. Patient does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 6 werks post-op! Treat it carefully and have it evaluated by a doctor. How long did it take? (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.). It was the most arduous process I've ever experienced. CLICK HERE INSTEADvar cid='1957822116';var pid='ca-pub-1552388110506181';var slotId='div-gpt-ad-foot_pain_explained_com-medrectangle-3-0';var ffid=2;var alS=2021%1000;var container=document.getElementById(slotId);container.style.width='100%';var ins=document.createElement('ins');ins.id=slotId+'-asloaded';ins.className='adsbygoogle ezasloaded';ins.dataset.adClient=pid;ins.dataset.adChannel=cid;if(ffid==2){ins.dataset.fullWidthResponsive='true';} She put a note in for the doctor and told me she'd get back to me. and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified The only way to fix it was the fusion. Read about causes and symptoms of this type of heart disease. Veinous insufficiency You can develop this condition when the veins in your legs don't function properly and don't send your blood back to your heart. We avoid using tertiary references. The surgeon should know about this immediately. 6 years ago, Your doctor may want to check the circulation of your feet, which is essential in treating foot discoloration. Medications such as calcium channel blockers or vasodilators, which help keep smaller arteries open, may also be necessary. Discoloration on your foot will appear when these blood vessels leak, turning into bruises. Do not put the bag of ice directly on your skin. I am 70 y.o and was very active and strong before my bilateral fracture on the left ankle. I hope that this helps and that you turn the corner in your recovery soon. I am retired, just need to get back to the way life was before. Read our editorial policy. It was a godsend. Elevate your leg so it's above your heart line. This condition occurs when the small blood vessels in the foot are blocked and cannot supply sufficient blood to the tissues. This condition is called peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Swelling and bruising are normal after surgery. said i'm to young (18) to have bad circulation? or something else? I had surgery to repair 3 breaks at the ankle on June 20th. Emotional stress and cold weather can cause acrocyanosis. I saw my surgeon and he diagnosed me with RSD. Money back guarantee for the 1st reply. Acrocyanosis episodes tend to persist. Wearing gloves and thick socks in cold temperatures may help reduce episodes. to [emailprotected], if you would like to upload more. Uncertain about your diagnosis or if their treatment options are complicated, risky, or unpleasant? 140 lbs black female, status post bunionectomy 6 weeks. You could also have a blood clot thats blocking blood flow in an artery. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Except I do not have pain! If the damage to your foots circulation is so severe that theres a risk of foot tissue dying, amputation may be necessary. Discoloration is normal. Notes on 2.5 weeks after ORIF and foot still goes purple when i put it down. Most Common Cause of Foot Ischemia Peripheral artery disease (PAD) refers to narrowing of arteries that carry oxygenated blood to various parts of the body. Factors that may cause blue toe syndrome include the following: Blocked arteries Damaged blood vessels Restricted blood flow Kidney failure Medications like blood thinners or coagulants and recreational drugs Complications during a medical procedure such as a surgery Angiogram. Patient does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your doctor if you have purple feet. I did call the doctor's office and the triage nurse was less than friendly and concerned. The blue color is caused by blood leaking into the affected area. I had developed a blood clot, and if a coworker hadn't suggested the possibility, it never would have occurred to me. Then, about a week or two ago I noticed it had returned whenever I stood (cooking, at the sink, standing in line) or sat at my desk doing work. Compression and ice will also help to reduce inflammation. I have been scouring the internet for positive feedback and cam across this post this morning. Learn more. The provider said it's normal, as the incision site looks clean and dry. It's gone after 3 days of weight bearing and moving around. But deep frostbite can turn skin purple. In other instances, foot discoloration is caused by a lack of oxygen-rich blood. Hi i broke my talus,fibula and tibia climbing about a month ago. This condition occurs when the small blood vessels in the foot are blocked and cannot supply sufficient blood to the tissues. HealthTap uses cookies to enhance your site experience and for analytics and advertising purposes. 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All rights reserved. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. Hi Andrew thank you so much, this was really helpful. I am 60+ and weigh 200lbs. Good Luck! This will reduce swelling. But if your foot starts to take on a purple color without any bumps or bruises, you should see your doctor. You can also take pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen, at your physicians direction. no pain. If you have poor circulation, its important to exercise and move. Hi thank thanks for reply. Was your foot pronating inward? People with this disease often experience other symptoms such as pain, numbness, and pins and needles. You will gradually be able to increase your weight-bearing capacity as you build strength and mobility. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Blood flow to the feet is vital for the body to heal, so its important to keep your ankle elevated to avoid any swelling. I am now seeing three specialists for this condition in hopes to contain it from spreading. Pat the area dry and apply a fragrance-free lotion to lock in moisture. Youll also experience weaker muscles. Instead of surgery, you may need to wear a splint or boot for about 6 weeks. This may require medications, as well regular exercise and a diet that will help keep your weight in a healthy range. Be persistant until it gets looked at. I have 2 plates and many screws and also 60. My advice would be not to let the horror stories get you down. Clarify, ask further questions for free in private conversation. It can also result from an incorrectly fitted cast. Patient is a UK registered trade mark. lack of circulation? Why does my 10 month hands and feet turn purple and cold?