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Suggest Treatment For Swelling In The Ankle After Injury

Posted on Mon, 9 Jan 2017

Question: I had a work injury on October 11,2016. I twisted both ankles and landed very hard on one knee. I immediately put ice on the injuries. I had the next two days scheduled off and rested my injuries. But I returned to work and gradually, both of my legs became extremely swollen to the point it was very painful and I could not put on shoes, I could not even see that I had ankles. I had gone to ER and they did an ultrasound, thank god no blood clots. I had x-rays which showed deminerilation in my knees, no fractures. I notice if I stand too long on my feet, both feet, ankles and legs swell extremely. In your opinion, what is going on? And i I need to see a specialist, what type would I see?

Answered by Dr. Mahaveer Patil (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Deep vein thrombosis / lymphoedema

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,

Thank you for posting the question.

I have gone through your question,medical history and the uploaded images in detail.

The swelling is,infact,very much significant on both the lower extremities.

Bony injury has been ruled out already.
Such swelling is mostly related to venous or lymphatic blockages.

You mentioned that you had an ultrasound done and there were no clots.

Was it ultrasound of the swollen part or was it venous color doppler?
Could you please upload its report so that i can go through it and guide you better ?

Blood clots in the venous system can cause such type of swelling when you stand for long periods of time.

Another cause is lymphatic blockages. Minor blockages in the tiny lymphatic system can cause such bilateral oedema.

I suggest you to get a venous color doppler done to rule out venous blockages.

Take fibrinolytic enzyme tablets like trypsin,chymotrypsin,serratiopeptidase etc.

Apply above knee compression stockinettes while you ambulate.
Keep the legs elevated over a pillow during sleep.

Get your blood sugar and proteins checked ( Elevated sugar and lowered protein levels can cause swelling in legs).

Do let me know about the reports once they are ready.

You can see a general / vascular surgeon if you would like to consult a specialist.

I hope the answer was useful.

Thank you.

Kind regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Mahaveer Patil (3 hours later)

Hi Dr. XXXXXXX

I have contacted the ER department of the hospital for copies of all of the reports that were performed. I will follow-up with you as soon as I receive them. Thank you so very much for your expertise, and advice. I am going to see a vascular surgeon. I am in the Philadelphia/New XXXXXXX area, if you have any advise on a great doctor, that would be a big help. Thank you again. Have a Blessed Day.

Regards, XXXXXXX (XXXX)

Answered by Dr. Mahaveer Patil (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Will wait for the reports

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mrs. XXXXXXX

Its my pleasure to be able to help you.

Do let me know what the vascular surgeon says about it.

I am presently working in XXXXXXX So,actually i am unaware of any doctors in Philadelphia/New XXXXXXX area.Sorry for that. You may contact your local GP or insurance provider and they can give you a list of doctors whom you may contact.

Do let me know the reports once you receive them from the ER department.

Thank you.

Take care.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad