What Causes Swollen Ankles And Calf Muscles In Legs?

Posted on Sun, 28 Jun 2015

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

Sun, 28 Jun 2015 Answered on

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 75 years old, have been travelling in a car for the past two days, and was in a fishing boat for the six days before that. I am experiencing swollen ankles and swelling in the calf area of my legs. I have lain down with my legs up, it has helped a little. What should I do next?

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
RICE, avoid further strain, use mild medications

Detailed Answer:
Hello sir and welcome.

Thank you for writing to us.

I have gone through your query with diligence and would like you to know that I am here to help. Follow the RICE protocol which entails:

R- Rest
I - Ice application to the affected region
C - Compression with the help of an elastic bandage
E - Elevation (Which you have been following already)

Also, avoid putting further strain on your joints for a few days and use a mild pain and inflammation management medication (e.g. tylenol, ibuprofen, etc.). I hope you find my response helpful. Please feel free to write back to me for any further clarifications, I am always here to help.

Best wishes.

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