Should i go to an orthopeadic or general doctor???

[KIKI2974]

Im not sure if i need a orthopeadic or just a general doctor consultation. About 3 weeks ago I began having exteme pain and uncomfortableness in my leg, and the knee area feels swollen and heavy but not noticible by looking at it just alittle. sometimes its a shooting pain that will go all the way down to my foot and othertimes its a constant ache. normally when i wake up in the morning it all feels alot better but by the early evening it gradually gets worse. any exercise will start up the pain as well as certain movements like when my dog pulls on her leash. I woke up this morning and my ankle was a lil swollen and very stiff (i have had a fracture on this ankle that i never let heal correctly)  I dont know if this is a muscle or vein or something else but its only getting worse.Im hoping someone will recognize these symptoms and be able to head me in the correct direction. Im currently unemployed no insurance, barely getting by on un employment so money is a BIG problem. Any advice as to where to start or a reasonable price doctor would be VERY GREATLY appreciated. thanks

[Phill614]

go to an orthopedic doctor or if your concern is only the ankle then see a podiatrist.  Phill

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Check for any local infection due to cellulitis if the area is swollen, red, painful and hot.

If not you would need to follow up with a local physician and check for any issues like local injury, fatigue and rule out conditions like diabetes and measure your vitals.

If the symptoms do not subside with rest and NSAIDs and if all your vitals are normal then you would need an orthopedician for a proper diagnosis.

Take care!