Swollen Ankles And Pain In Legs

[Linkinparkrocks]

My mum has arthritis and really bad swollen ankles co codemol are not taking pain off she has tried certain gels and heat pads is there anything else that can ease pain more and help take swelling down in ankles she’s been doctors several times but said nothing can be done surely there is something to ease it more anyone suffer same thing and find anything that eases it more

[ducksie]

I get swollen ankles, her doctor is correct, all she can do is just rest the legs whenever she can - keep them raised and take the pills, I can't see that heat pads and gels can help - maybe just massage them for her to ease the pain but i wouldn't be applying heat unless the gp or district nurse suggests she should

[bookbinder]

My wife uses this gel for her arthritis, which doesn't seem to be as painful as does your mother's:
Ketoprofen 2.5% w/w gel. It's available on prescription only.
My wife says that this gel helps 'a bit', so it might be worth a try.
It might help if you could specify exactly what gels and heat pads your mother has tried.

[bednobs]

support stockings?

[pixie374]

Support stockings may help... but it depends what is causing the swelling. Presumably doctors have already checked... but basically, if you press your thumb into her swollen ankle, and it stays "dipped", the problem is excess water... and water tablets may well help if she isn't already taking them.
Keep her legs raised as much as possible, rotating ankles or exercising, if she is able to. I would personally find out the cause of the swelling first x

[pixie374]

Great username btw ;-)

[woofgang]

PS "raised" means as high as or higher than the hips. Think of a hosepipe and how high you have to lift it to drain the water out.

[curlyhair]

Well my mum is also used to it.

To reduce the swelling from a foot or ankle injury, rest to avoid walking on the injured ankle or foot, use ice packs, wrap the foot or ankle with compression bandage, and elevate the foot on a stool or pillow. If swelling and pain is severe or doesn't improve with home treatment, see your doctor.