Swelling in one ankle is a common issue that can occur for various reasons, from injury to underlying medical conditions. While people often expect swelling to come with pain, having a swollen ankle without discomfort is possible. Understanding the potential causes and treatment options for ankle swelling is critical to addressing this condition before it becomes more severe.

Finding the right leg doctor can be stressful without proper guidance. First, however, you must take time to conduct research before choosing a leg doctor.

Although it can be challenging, finding a leg doctor doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some tips on navigating the process, what to do, and what to look for. 

Why Leg Health Is Important and When to Seek Help From a Leg Doctor

Our legs help us to maintain every aspect of our lives. Therefore, they must remain healthy and strong. 

Lower leg pain isn’t just a nuisance; it can signify a severe underlying condition. The issue can significantly harm the quality of your life, making it difficult to walk or even stand.

Lower leg pain can have many causes, including vascular, musculoskeletal, and nerve problems. If you experience lower leg pain, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Frequent guidance tells us to elevate a body part that is sore or painful to help reduce any swellings and ease some of the pain. This is especially true of leg pain.

1. Elevation – Gravity is not our friend when it comes to leg swelling. If you sit or stand with your legs in a dependent position, then there is a chance your legs will swell. Therefore, you can minimize swelling by elevating the legs. Elevation helps by using gravity to your advantage allowing fluid and blood to return to your heart more effectively. Try to limit the time you sit in one place for extended periods. I like to suggest to my patients to set a timer for 1 hour to remind them to get up and move around.

Many of my patients come to me with leg pain and it is my job to help determine the source of that pain. Sometimes, it can be difficult, even for a medical provider, to help make this determination.

Below are some of the most common reasons for leg pain, and some strategies for feeling better.

Sleep stubbornly refuses to come as you try to settle in for the night. You toss and turn, wrestling with the urge to move your legs. Discomfort crawls beneath your skin, and a frustrated sigh escapes your partner. You exchange a look, silently acknowledging the night of fitful sleep ahead.

Nearly one million Americans die of cardiovascular-related diseases every year and half of those deaths are caused by vascular conditions outside of the heart, such as in the upper extremities or legs. Early diagnosis is key for effective treatment.