Bunionectomy complication

[Nontutuzelo]

Dear Doctor,

I had a bunionectomy three months ago and up until today I still feel pain on the joint under my big toe. Even if I wear flat shoes my foot gets swollen just from walking in the mall for 30 minutes.There is a particular spot on the side of the foot (where the op is) that pulls the whole toe when touched. It is such an uncomfortable feeling,as a result of it I was to bandage the area so that I don't get irritated by the shoe.I brought this to my surgeon's attention in December and he told me that it's probably a stitch that needs to dissove and that I should give it some time. Until today I still have the problem.

He has asked that I see a physiotherapist.I've had 5 sessions and there is still no improvement.
Two weeks ago he told me that if this persists he will have to open the scar and see what the problem is. He suspects that the scar tissue is interfering with a nerve.What must I do ? I don't want to be operated on again as this is depressing already. Please advise.

[Nontutuzelo]

Thank you for your response.Two days ago I walked into a steel stel with my toe. It is now extremely painful and I'm worried that the incident will slow my healing process. I'm seeing my doctor for a scan next week,and will take it from there

Regards,

Nontutuzelo

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

I would suggest you to go for physiotherapy for a longer period of time and also go for scans and diagnose the problem before you go for the surgery.

Keep surgery as the last option and also take some intermittent pain killers and use ice packs to decrease the swelling and inflammation.

You can also have a neurologist examined for diagnosing any nerve related problems.

Take care!