Have you recently had patellar tendon surgery and now the foot on that side feels cold?
There may definitely be a connection between the chilled sensation and your recent tendon procedure.
The patellar tendon attaches the bottom of one’s patella (kneecap) to the top of the tibia or shin bone.
It’s not unheard of for the sensation of a cold foot on the surgical leg to occur after the procedure.
It’s not your imagination.
“A cold foot after patellar tendon surgery would likely be caused by one of two complications,” says Marc F. Matarazzo, MD, a board certified orthopedic surgeon with The Center for Bone & Joint Surgery of the Palm Beaches, FL.
“The first would be an arterial injury compromising the blood flow to the foot.
“This would be a very serious complication requiring immediate attention in order to avoid potential amputation.
“The other likely cause would be more common which is the development of chronic regional pain syndrome, formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, related to any trauma, surgery, prolonged immobilization, smoking, history of migraines or asthma, fibromyalgia, anxiety/depression.
“This condition presents with an exaggerated pain response, swelling, stiffness, skin discoloration, vasomotor dysfunction.
“It is usually treated with physical therapy, medications, nerve stimulation or blockade, or surgical sympathectomy.”
If you seem to have coldness in your foot following surgical repair of the patellar tendon on that side, you should immediately bring this up to your surgeon.
Dr. Matarazzo specializes in sports medicine and related injuries. He performs minimally invasive and complex reconstructions, and joint replacements, of the shoulder and knee. Dr. Matarazzo is certified in the MAKO robotic-assisted knee replacement system and has 20+ years of orthopedic experience. He has a special interest in cartilage restoration and preservation.
Lorra Garrick is a former personal trainer certified by the American Council on Exercise. At Bally Total Fitness she trained clients of all ages for fat loss, muscle building, fitness and improved health.
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