Arian Foster is now denying reports that he will have heart surgery to repair an irregular heartbeat condition. The Houston Texans' running back and general manager Rick Smith are shooting down the story of the surgery, stating that everything is fine with Foster's health and heart condition.
"Thank you for all the concern. As of now, I have no complications with my blood pumper. I have not, nor do I plan, anytime in the near future to have conversations with my doctors about any surgery," Foster said during an appearance on Radio Row at the Super Bowl.
It was originally reported that Foster planned to undergo a heart procedure called a heart ablation. The surgery would correct abnormal heart rhythms by inserting catheter tubes to repair structural problems around the heart.
Foster has struggled with an irregular heartbeat for most of his life. It causes him shortness of breath from time to time. In his four-year NFL career, Foster has missed part of a practice and one game due to the condition. He was taken out of the game against the Minnesota Vikings last December.
Smith says the team is comfortable with where Foster is with his health. Team doctors continue to monitor his condition and treat him accordingly.
Foster said he can recall eight times he has had an issue with his heartbeat, since discovering the condition when he was about 12. Doctors have never been able to pinpoint the exact cause of it, but Foster believes it might be due to stress.
