A bruised ankle can cause pain, swelling, and redness, making it difficult to put pressure on the affected foot. Treatment involves rest, cold compresses, and pain relievers. Sports injuries are a common cause, and skin discoloration may occur. In rare cases, blood clots can develop, requiring prescription drugs or surgery.
A bruised ankle is a relatively common injury and can cause symptoms that range from mild to severe in nature. Pain, swelling and redness are among the most common symptoms associated with a bruised ankle. The swelling and discomfort can make it difficult or impossible to put pressure on the affected foot. Treatment for these symptoms can vary depending on the specific situation and usually involves rest, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Any specific questions or concerns about a bruised ankle on an individual basis should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
Sports injuries are among the most common contributing factors to the occurrence of a bruised ankle, although there are other potential causes, including automobile accidents or overuse of the surrounding ligaments. In most cases, mild to moderate pain occurs due to the injury. If severe bruising occurs, the pain can be quite severe.
Swelling often occurs when you suffer an ankle injury. The degree of swelling can vary greatly, from barely noticeable to becoming so severe that it is impossible to put on a shoe. The combination of pain and swelling can cause difficulty when trying to walk, and it may be impossible to place any weight on the ankle.
Some degree of skin discoloration is to be expected when a bruised ankle occurs. The area around the ankle may appear red at first, eventually turning into the familiar purple bruise. If the discoloration becomes severe, see a doctor to make sure no blood clots are present.
The various symptoms of a bruised ankle are usually treated individually after a doctor has evaluated the injured area and ruled out further damage. Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen usually provide sufficient relief from the discomfort associated with this type of injury. Ice packs or cold packs may be used to reduce swelling, and the patient may find relief by resting the ankle and keeping it elevated above the heart.
In rare cases, blood clots can develop under the skin due to a bruised ankle. Prescription drugs may be given in an attempt to prevent complications from these blood clots. In more extreme situations, surgery may be needed to remove blood clots or repair any additional damage to surrounding tissue. Carefully following a doctor’s instructions can usually prevent serious complications from developing, and a bruised ankle usually heals completely within a few weeks.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
