Why is my ankle still swollen after 2 months?

Ankle swelling after 2 months could indicate underlying issues.

While some swelling after an ankle injury (such as a sprain) is normal, especially in the weeks immediately following the injury, persistent swelling after two months requires attention. According to the reference, swelling that lasts for more than three months may be a sign of trouble.

Here's a breakdown of potential reasons and what to consider:

Potential Reasons for Prolonged Ankle Swelling

Several factors could contribute to ankle swelling lasting longer than expected:

• Incomplete Healing: The initial injury may not have healed properly due to insufficient rest or improper rehabilitation.
• Re-injury: You may have re-injured your ankle without realizing it, hindering the healing process.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Swelling could be a symptom of a different condition, such as:
  • Arthritis
  • Venous insufficiency
  • Lymphedema
  • Kidney or heart problems (though these usually present with swelling in both ankles)
• Blood clot: A blood clot in the leg can cause swelling.
• Impingement: Soft tissues or bone spurs may be pinching structures in the ankle, leading to persistent swelling.

What to Do About Persistent Ankle Swelling

1. Consult a Doctor: It is recommended to consult a doctor for a complete assessment. They can diagnose the cause of the swelling and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

2. Physical Examination: The doctor will perform a physical examination of your ankle to evaluate the range of motion, stability, and pain points.

3. Imaging Tests: X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to visualize the structures in your ankle and identify any abnormalities.

4. Treatment Plan: Treatment may include:

   • Physical therapy: To improve strength, flexibility, and stability.
   • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers.
   • Orthotics: To provide support and correct alignment.
   • Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or remove bone spurs.

5. R.I.C.E. Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): Continue these measures to help manage the swelling.

   • Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the swelling.
   • Ice: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
   • Compression: Use a compression bandage to help reduce swelling.
   • Elevation: Keep your ankle elevated above your heart as much as possible.

Summary