$Unique_ID{BRK01334}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Some Relief for Swollen and Sore Ankles}
$Subject{ankle swelling circulatory system swollen sore ankles feet tight
shoes edema joint joints swell foot shoe edematous blood flow}
$Volume{G-17}
$Log{
Leg and Foot Pains Caused by Running*0006207.scf
Anatomy of the Ankle*0006602.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Some Relief for Swollen and Sore Ankles


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QUESTION:  My job keeps me on my feet for the better part of the day.  By the
time early afternoon rolls around my ankles are swollen and sore, making the
rest of the day more difficult to bear.  I can't afford to give up the job,
but need to know what to do to get some relief.  Any advice you can give me
would be greatly appreciated.

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ANSWER:  Your problem is common enough, providing it is just that, an
annoyance in and of itself, rather than a symptom of some other medical
condition.  Swollen ankles can be the result of too much time on your feet,
plus tight shoes and clothing, such as garters, that impede the circulation
and prevents blood from flowing back to the heart.  But edema (the presence of
too much fluid in the tissues) may be the result of serious medical
conditions, so a visit to your doctor is in order.  If no other cause can be
found here is a tip that may make your afternoons a bit more bearable.  Find a
quiet, private place where you can perform the following maneuver.  Remove
socks and shoes, lie on your back and raise your legs, placing your feet up
over your hips.  While holding your legs in position, gently rotate your feet
first in one direction then the other to keep circulation going.  Relief
should be fairly rapid.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.