I had multiple foot fractures. Why does it swell when I try to walk with crutches or sit on a wheel chair?

Question

20 days ago I was in a car accident and broke my foot in multiple places. I am now lying in bed with my foot up. When I walk with crutches or even sit up I feel my foot like a plastic bag being filed up with water. Although it doesn’t hurt It immediately becomes dark red and starts swelling. Is this normal?

Answer 1

I have had 7 re constructive foot surgeries on both feet, so first of all, I feel you pain!

I know the feeling that you are talking about. This is caused by you foot being below your heart, filling up with blood due to the trauma and causing it to feel like a "plastic bag being filled up with water." The absolute best thing you can do it KEEP IT UP and STAY OFF OF IT as much as you can! I know it sucks, I have spent months in bed at a time, but your feet are something that you need to take care of. I am sure you realize now how inconvenient it is to have to hobble around. So, take good care of it now to lessen future "aching."

When you walk with crutches, try to keep your knee (with the bad foot) bend up behind you as high as you can... that will stop the filling up feeling. When you sit up, have your foot on a chair or up on the couch with you.

Good Luck! I hope it heals great!

Answer 2

When you're standing or sitting with your foot down, it causes swelling. When you sit, prop your injured foot up on a footstool or a chair so that it's easier for the blood and fluids to return toward the heart. Avoid standing for long periods of time and elevate the foot often.

Answer 3

You're cutting blood circulation in your main arteries.