Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Causes Swelling In Ankle And Foot Post Experiencing Multiple Contusions?
I was injured in a car accident with multiple contusions, bruises to the leg and foot. The foot is now swelling as is the ankle. A doppler to check for clots in the leg was done on Wednesday of last week and it was basically clear. What could be causing this swelling now of the ankle and foot?
Tue, 8 Sep 2020
Hello,
It is good to know that your Doppler examination shows no clots. Since you have history of multiple concussions and bruises to the leg and foot because of a car accident and now are experiencing swelling in the ankle it is indicative that the injury / trauma has not healed completely.
The swelling in the ankle can be due to secondary lymph-edema. The lymph vessels and nodes may not have healed completely causing changes in the lymph flow and hence, swelling. No worries. Be careful with your leg and ankle, it will go away with time, have patience. To reduce swelling keep your foot on a stool while sitting or on a pillow when on bed. Wear shoes that are comfortable, avoid wearing them for a longer period of time. Loose weight if obese, manage stress. Stay quite active so that body's circulatory system functions well & aids faster healing. But do not over stress yourself.
Take anti-inflammatory medicines and avoid salty food and snacks to prevent water retention if any. Control your blood glucose level at all cost. Take food, fruits and veggies that are natural diuretics to flush out excess water. Soak foot in warm salt water for some time at least twice daily. Cold compress or applying ice packs are also effective.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
It is good to know that your Doppler examination shows no clots. Since you have history of multiple concussions and bruises to the leg and foot because of a car accident and now are experiencing swelling in the ankle it is indicative that the injury / trauma has not healed completely.
The swelling in the ankle can be due to secondary lymph-edema. The lymph vessels and nodes may not have healed completely causing changes in the lymph flow and hence, swelling. No worries. Be careful with your leg and ankle, it will go away with time, have patience. To reduce swelling keep your foot on a stool while sitting or on a pillow when on bed. Wear shoes that are comfortable, avoid wearing them for a longer period of time. Loose weight if obese, manage stress. Stay quite active so that body's circulatory system functions well & aids faster healing. But do not over stress yourself.
Take anti-inflammatory medicines and avoid salty food and snacks to prevent water retention if any. Control your blood glucose level at all cost. Take food, fruits and veggies that are natural diuretics to flush out excess water. Soak foot in warm salt water for some time at least twice daily. Cold compress or applying ice packs are also effective.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....