Persistent Ankle Swelling
Greetings everyone! I’m a 27-year-old woman. Back in 2020, I had a significant ankle injury when I twisted it quite severely. Ever since that incident, I’ve been experiencing intermittent swelling and discomfort. This usually flares up after long days spent standing or wearing shoes that lack proper support, especially if I’ve been walking a lot. I don't use any medication for it, and until now, I haven’t sought medical attention. I’ve found that wearing a compression sock alleviates some of the pain. The main reason I didn’t visit a doctor back in 2020 was due to not having health insurance, and then life just got busy. Unfortunately, the swelling and soreness have become more frequent in recent times.
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 1:30:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
Persistent ankle swelling after a past injury can indicate lingering effects like chronic inflammation or issues with joint stability. It’s important to address the condition, especially since symptoms are becoming more frequent.
The swelling you’re experiencing may be due to residual effects from your 2020 ankle injury, such as damaged ligaments or chronic inflammation. Standing for long periods or wearing unsupportive shoes can exacerbate these issues, leading to increased pain and swelling. Although a compression sock may provide some relief, it's crucial to take additional steps to manage this condition effectively.
Here are prioritized steps you can take:
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Rest and Elevate: When you experience swelling, try to rest your ankle and keep it elevated on a pillow. This helps reduce swelling by allowing fluid to drain away from the area.
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Ice: Applying ice to your ankle for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce inflammation and numb any pain after long days or physical activity. Always remember to place a cloth between the ice and your skin to prevent frostbite.
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Supportive Footwear: Invest in well-fitting, supportive shoes. Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning, particularly if you are on your feet a lot. Avoid high heels or flat shoes with no support.
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Compression: Continue using compression socks, but ensure they fit well. They should provide support without being too tight.
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Gentle Exercise: Engage in gentle range-of-motion exercises to improve ankle mobility. Simple movements, like flexing and pointing your toes or tracing the alphabet with your foot, can help promote circulation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms to identify patterns. Take note of when swelling occurs, potential triggers, and any other accompanying symptoms (like pain or stiffness).
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Explore Options: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking medical attention when feasible, even if insurance is an issue. Many areas have community clinics or resources that may offer care at reduced costs.
By focusing on these steps, you can manage your symptoms more effectively. If issues continue, seeking professional advice would become increasingly important to ensure proper treatment and avoid further complications.
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