“My right ankle seems to be swollen but there is no pain. Should I try ice therapy to reduce the swelling?”
My right ankle seems to be swollen up even though I didn't do anything to it and there is no pain as well. Should ice therapy work to reduce the swelling?
12 Answers
no
Your problem needs to be evaluated by a physician. Swelling without pain may for example be water retention and applying ice will not do any good. Ice is usually used with swelling following an injury but there's usually pain involved as well. So if you're not experiencing pain something else is going on and it needs to be guided by a physician.
Yes you can try ice and elevation but if the swelling persists I would have it checked out.
Ankle swelling without an injury or event means there is something “upstream “ that is causing the swelling; depending on your age and any other possible medical conditions like venous insufficiency or even diabetes could be what is the etiology of this swelling. So it could be any number of things such as vascular malformation, prior leg or knee injury or surgery, or even a benign soft tissue mass.
Ice would help, and an elasticated stocking. Put your foot up when you are not walking, but walking is encouraged and helps to reduce swelling.
If swelling exists, but you have no pain, the ankle joint may not be the actual cause. Swelling can be due to issues other than musculoskeletal issues. You can call my office for an appointment at 608-324-2458.
If there was no trauma and no pain, then the most likely reason is that the valves in your veins are "leaky" and you are retaining fluid in the leg. Ice is okay, but elevate your leg above your heart when the ankle swells. If the problem persists, then have your doctor look at it.
Dr. Bose
Dr. Bose
James W. Cahill
Orthopedist
This is a very common question. Some more information would be beneficial, such as your age and any past medical history. I would recommend an evaluation by your primary care physician first. A traumatic swelling may be secondary to fluid retention and circulation. A specialty consult can be recommended by your physician if needed. I believe this is a prime first step.
Yes you can ice along with elevation 15-20 minutes at a time.
Nabil A Ebraheim
Orthopedist
You should see a doctor to assess the issue.
No try to make a compressing bandage
Yes, you can ice, elevate, and ace compression wrap should help alleviate the swelling. If it persists, you may want to have it examined by your doctor.
