Swollen ankles

• What are swollen ankles?

• Common causes

• Symptoms

• Natural remedies

• Other ways to help

What are swollen ankles?

Swollen ankles, feet and legs, referred to medically as oedema, occur when fluid is retained in the spaces between body cells. While oedema typically affects the feet, ankles and lower legs, it can also impact any area of the body, causing systemic symptoms. Another, rarer form of swollen ankle is lymphoedema, which is genetically inherited. You can tell the difference between the two by pressing the skin with your thumb for a few seconds. If it leaves a clear imprint, you have probably have Oedema, if not you most likely have lymphoedema.
 

Common causes

Lymphoedema is caused by increased pressure in the lymphatics and needs professional medical treatment. Oedema is due to increased pressure in the veins and can be treated by finding its cause. Pressure can be increased because of:

• Varicose veins.

• Failure of the muscle pump - for example sitting in an aeroplane for 12 hours, unable to walk and unable to put your feet up.

• Allergy - food allergy and chemical sensitivity often causes fluid retention which may manifest as puffy ankles.

• Poor circulation bought on by inactivity.

• Hypertension.

• Water retention (caused by excessive salt intake or menstrual cycle).

Symptoms^†

• Swelling in ankles, legs and feet.

• Discomfort.

• Increase in thickness of skin.

• Numbness and tingling.

Natural remedies

• Homeopathy such as the homeopathic remedy Arnica has been traditionally used to help with soothing swollen ankles. (Always read the label.) ^{∏ Ω}

• Body balance work such as shiatsu, yoga, deep tissue massage can help the swelling.

• Manipulation such as chiropractic and osteopathy can be beneficial for those with swelling related to strains and sprains.

Other ways to help

• Daily exercise for at least 30 mins, diaphragmatic breathing, stretching and walking in fresh air can be beneficial.

• For badly swollen ankles, elevate legs every hour for a few minutes or twice daily for half an hour.

• Drink at least 8 large glasses of water a day. This will flush out extra salts from your body and reduce the swelling.

• Cut back on salt intake.

• Keeping your feet elevated will also make a huge different to the swelling. Try to keep two pillows beneath your feet when you sleep.

^† Medical referral is advisable if symptoms worsen or persist.

^∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision. 

^Ω Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a doctor before taking any medicines.