HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Had Broken Leg. Plate And Screws Were Put Above Ankle. Noticed Leg Is Swollen And Knot Has Developed

I had a broken leg/ankle twenty years ago.Aplate and screwswere put in my leg above the ankle. I have noticed that my left leg is swollen and a knot has developed on the outside of the plate. I have been walking a lot during my work day. Is the ankle swelling from too much walking or is the plate being rejected by my body? What would be the recommended therapy for the swelling and discomfort?
Wed, 25 Sep 2013
Report Abuse
Spine Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi
Thank you for your question to HCM.

Swelling around the ankle may be related to excessive activity particularly if it is done in standing position. It is unlikely that a 20 year old plate is being 'rejected' by your body now.

Possibilities are- swelling related to excessive activity, infection or broken implants if you suffered a recent fall or trauma. Xrays of the affected ankle are needed to diagnose this with accuracy.

Definitive treatment would depend on what exactly is the cause of swelling that would be obvious from examination and Xrays. To start with avoid putting weight on that ankle for 24 hours. Keep the foot elevated over a couple of pillows while in bed or while resting in sitting position. An appropriately applied crepe bandage will help reduce the swelling.

Hope this is helpful. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
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]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Recent questions on Elastic bandage


Loading Online Doctors....
Had Broken Leg. Plate And Screws Were Put Above Ankle. Noticed Leg Is Swollen And Knot Has Developed

Hi Thank you for your question to HCM. Swelling around the ankle may be related to excessive activity particularly if it is done in standing position. It is unlikely that a 20 year old plate is being rejected by your body now. Possibilities are- swelling related to excessive activity, infection or broken implants if you suffered a recent fall or trauma. Xrays of the affected ankle are needed to diagnose this with accuracy. Definitive treatment would depend on what exactly is the cause of swelling that would be obvious from examination and Xrays. To start with avoid putting weight on that ankle for 24 hours. Keep the foot elevated over a couple of pillows while in bed or while resting in sitting position. An appropriately applied crepe bandage will help reduce the swelling. Hope this is helpful. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.