Ask a doctor on the topic of Orthopedics

Bone edema in the area of the tarsal bones of the left foot.

March 19, 2012 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg

In September 2011, I almost had a concrete umbrella stand fall on my left foot. I was able to move my foot to the side, but a side impact could not be avoided. Since that time, I have been receiving treatment. Cortisone was injected and two MRI examinations have shown that I have edema in the bones of my foot. Just 3 days ago, I started wearing a so-called short-walker. In November/December, my foot was already in a cast for 6 weeks. Over a long period of time, I have taken homeopathic remedies, applied poultices, used various pain oils, taken special foot baths, and now I am at the end of my wits. The doctor also has no further advice. What should I do? I have a trip to India planned in April, and while I won't need to do much walking, I am concerned about the heat of 40 degrees. How will my foot react to that, and can I take preventive measures? Should I wear compression stockings, bring walking aids? I would be very grateful for any advice.

Kind regards

Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Dear Inquirer,

The tips for India are simple:
Of course, they should take walking aids so that they can relieve their foot in case of severe swelling. Also, compression stockings are useful in high heat, (bus?) travel, etc.

For advice on what else they can do, I need more information: Are you allowed to fully load again and since when? Do you still need to take cortisone in any form? Is the foot now no longer swollen? Do complaints and edema only occur under load? Have you already tried physical measures, such as (hot and cold baths)? Has there ever been talk of a Sudeck syndrome? Are you fit for work? and of course how old are you? I will be happy to contact you again if you provide me with this information. You surely understand that advice for a 24-year-old may differ from that for an 80-year-old.

Best regards, Dr. R. Berg