Suggest Treatment For Ankle Swelling

Posted on Thu, 27 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 27 Mar 2014 Answered on

Mon, 14 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi Doctor, What happenned: I recently sprained my ankle (22nd-March) while hurriedly going down the stairs. While turning my ankle twisted and there was swelling immediately . Consultation: After consulting a doctor and getting my x-ray done, the doc told me that there was no fracture and the reason for a lot of swelling was because of ligament/muscle damage. The medicines prescribed were: 1. Signo Flam (paracetamol, serratiopeptidase & aceclotenac tablets) [1-0-1 x 5days] 2. Naproxen Tablets [250mg 1-0-1 x 5days] 3. QNext & Vitamin E tablets Along with this, I am using ice every hour or so and keeping my ankle elevated on pillows. Current Status: Today is day 5 after the injury. I am on complete bed rest except for bathroom activities. Few areas had turned dark blue since the next day of injury. My swelling has subsided over last 4 days. Yesterday I tried a bit of movement (not walking etc, just moving my fingers and ankle slightly). Today the swelling has slightly increased. I am applying ice-pack, keeping the leg elevated for last 4-5 days. Queries: 1. How long will the swelling remain? 2. When should I be able to walk again. I have take 1 week leave from my office. Can I join next week? If yes, should I buy a crutch? I suppose it's important not to out any pressure on the leg. 3. What can I do to ensure speedy recovery. Thanks, XXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer: I think you need a plaster. Detailed Answer: Hello XXXXXXX First I want to appreciate your question. You have given a good description and good quality images. I will answer your questions in same sequence. 1. This swelling will decrease slowly and complete recovery can take up to one month. 2. I think you will be able to walk after two weeks of injury, it would be good idea if you walk with crutches and do not put weight on injured foot. 3. For faster recovery,I want you to get plaster(Slab) on your ankle as it will decrease swelling much quickly.It will starts from 6 inches above ankle to toe. This plaster will speed up your recovery and also help if you have any ligament damage. Keep this plaster for 2 weeks. Crape bandage also helps but not like plaster. 4. Always keep your ankle elevated at pillow and do not keep it hanging. Let me know if i can answer any thing else for you. thanks and take care.

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (26 hours later)

Hi Doc, Thanks for your reply. I will meet my doctor here and ask for a plaster. I have a couple of more questions: 1. What are the exercises that I need to strengthen my ankle later. When should I start these exercises. 2. This is a silly question. I read that there are 3 grades of Ankle sprains. Which grade is mine? Regards, XXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Simple exercises Detailed Answer: hello XXXXXXX I welcome your decision. once your plaster is removed you can start walking and can do ankle movement exercises. You can do all ankle movement as much as your pain permits. There is no specific exercise though. I can not comment just by seeing image about your ankle sprain grading. It is more of a MRI diagnosis. So there is no need to think about it at present. Usually plaster treats first and second degree . Third degree needs ligament's surgical repair.Thanks and take care.

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