What Causes Swelling In The Lower Leg?

Posted on Thu, 21 Sep 2017

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

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 Answered on

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I bumped my lower leg just above my ankle and more towards the front on a metal object. It swelled up immediately. i elevated it and put ice one it and the swelling was reduced. The minute I stood up the bump swelled again and it is painful. I am now sitting and the lump decreases and the pain disappears. Should I do any thing else?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get an X-ray done.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
After a sudden injury on the leg, appearance of pain, swelling with skin color changes, tenderness, etc are all indicative of hematoma formation either due to a soft tissue injury or due to a hairline fracture.
For diagnosis it is important to get an x-ray foot and a MRI scan of the area done. X-rays are very sensitive for picking up any fracture and MRI is one of the best tests for ruling out and identifying soft tissue injuries in the area of fall.
I recommend you to consult an Orthopedician for proper examination and required investigations.
Meanwhile -
1. Do a cold compress on the area of injury.
2. Avoid weight bearing on the foot.
3. Keep the foot elevated on two pillows while resting.
4. Get some mild pain killers prescribed from your doctor.

I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar