PTTD Surgery - Icing - Foot Problems Message Board

MasonQ · 09-13-2008, 12:49 PM

What the word on icing after PTTD surgery?

I'm two days out and they really didn't give me any ice in the hospital, even tho I was in enough pain to stay an extra night.

Does the cold get thru the splint/ace thing and the cast afterwards?

Please give me lots of advice and methods! I'm hurting quite a
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Thanks!
M

hurts2walk · 09-13-2008, 01:04 PM

Are you elevating the foot? I have kept mine elevated 99% of the time and when I have it "down" I feel the pain. I was told in the recovery room to ice at the back of the knee. This has helped (anyone out there know why?).

Hang in there...I am 1 week post op.

sunny77 · 09-13-2008, 02:01 PM

I stayed overnight after one of my surgeries, but had to ask for ice while there and only was sent home with one small refillable ice pack. They expect you to have ice packs on hand for this...you'll be good friends with them for the next few months! You definitely want to keep icing, even if you can't feel it through the splint. It is likely doing a little more than you think. As far as the one behind your knee, there are nerves there that run down into the foot so numbing things up there helps your foot. Elevate it anytime you're not up for some reason. And take your pain meds at regular intervals, even if you're not having pain. It's harder to play catch up to pain than it is to stay ahead of it.

lmrich · 09-13-2008, 02:01 PM

I agree - elevate all the time. I have tried to use a 10lb bag of ice as suggested on this board. Oddly enough, that makes my heel hurt - possibly because it is not a soft surface. I have not noticed that the icing is working - my toes are not cold. If you are in considerable pain, talk to you doctor about pain medication. I had my surgery 10 days ago and take my pain medication as directed; I still have acute pain at night. I have taken benadryll to help me sleep. I have also discovered that peace in the house (kids not fighting, husband being helpful) keeps my pain in control. Good luck - did you get a block? I still took pain meds with the block.

Linda

MasonQ · 09-13-2008, 03:32 PM

Thanks for help!
I had heard about the behind-the-knee thing and will do it.

Yes, the hospital and my dr were both apathetic about icing. But, hey, it's swelling, right? So Ice it!! I will try whatever tricks you all post!

I'm also curious about everyone's pain "cocktails". They all seem different. Should I start a separate thread for that tho?

btw - this board has been such a lifeline. Answered so many of my questions and given me great perspective. Much thanks to you all! I would insert a smiley but I don't know how and miiiiight be a little too drugged up to learn!

TY again!