My father had surgery on a pinched nerve in his neck He is 74 years old and is borderline diabetic. He could hardly walk before the surgery and its been 5 months and the last week his ankles and feet turned a dark red and are very swollen? Is this normal?
Hi, thank you for providing the brief history of your father. A thorough neuromuscular assessment is advised. As you mentioned your father had surgery of the cervical spine, and he is diabetic borderline with age of 74 years, there is nothing to worry with the swelling. As your father is 74 and not mobile, there will be a reduced venous return which leads to swelling in the lower limbs (Ankle). Also, for this you can keep the leg elevated on the pillow above the level of the heart and the swelling will come down. You can take suggestion from your euro about undergoing physical therapy, as with physical therapy the metabolism will improve and normal muscle property will be maintained. Also, the venous return and hemodynamics will improve. RegardsJay In Chat Doctor.