Question
Hi,
I'm a 33 years old female..
My left ankle all of a sudden started to pain real bad yesterday..I couldn't even touch the area as it became too tender..and it got too difficult to walk..I did manage to put ice pack and rubbed in some balm, took a pain killer and slept with my foot elevated..I was much much better this morning pain wise..It pains when I try to stand on my toes but manageable..But what I noticed today is, by the end of the day, I have a swollen left ankle..though the pain is much in control..Do i need to worry and visit my PCP rightaway? Is it something serious?or do i wait and watch it for a few days? I'm really worried, please guide..

Answer
Dear Punam,
This Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661,Roscoe Village 60618,Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says...
Assuming that the ankle pain is only localized ankle arthritis (perhaps gout) and not more serious, then healing time should be around 1-2 weeks. As long as it continues daily,then you can wait it out. If it gets worse, or does not improve-then see a Podiatrist. The PCP will not know as quickly.
For now try PRICE
Protect-Wear an ankle brace around the ankle and limit the movements that aggravate it.
Rest-Speaks for itself-perhaps the weekend when you are off-rest it.
Ice- Will help if the ankle is painful and a little with the swelling.  
Compress-Ace wrap  or ankle sleeve
Elevate-Will help if the ankle throbs or swells at the end of the day.
You can continue on the anti-inflammatories for a few days-as directed.
See your local podiatrist who usually can diagnose and take care of the same visit-including a no wait x-ray.
Hope This Helps!
 and
Good Luck!
The podiatrists of AnkleNFootCenters.com are specialists in foot & ankle pain.
We are located in Chicago & Elmhurst

Dr George Tsatsos & Svetlana Zats
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
AnkleNFoot.com
Runnersdoc.com
BabyFootDoc.com

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