Left Ankle and Foot Swelling

[Robin6772]

I've been experiencing major swelling in my left ankle and foot.  I've been to 4 doctors (Orthopaedic, Vascular, Arthritic and a Primary) and still have no idea what the problem is.  I had microscopic surgery on my left knee in June 2006.  The swelling in my ankle didn't begin until Spring 2007.  Not sure if they're related.  It started off as random minor swelling.  As time past by, it would/could be swelled for a couple of days and than just disappear for weeks and than randomoly appear again.  I cannot tie it to diet or shoes.  I've had a number of xrays on my knee and my ankle, all of which came back normal.  I had a vascular ultrasound performed...also came back normal.  I also had an MRI...Normal!  Also had a series of bloodwork for anything from lyme disease to arthritis or gout...all of which came back normal.  Also had a cortizone shot, which had no improvement.  A doctor tried to remove some fluid but couldn't extract anything.  And now, per the advice of the doctor who did the orthopaedic surgery on my left knee, I'm wearing a support stocking, which also has not improved the situation.  I'm 35 and probably shouldn't be wearing support stockings..........yet!  I'm kind of at my witt's end and not sure what to do.  Any insight that can be provided is appreciated.  If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.

Thank you,
Robin~

[Robin6772]

Hi ammo76:

Have you been to the doctors yet?  Any indications of what it could be?  I hear you about the tight shoes...but I don't even want to show my ankle or foot....I've become very self-conscious about it...and with the warm weather peeking around  the corner, I just want them to find out what's wrong so they can fix it and be done with it.  Another follow-up appointment is scheduled for next week...I'm sure it will be a waste of time and another copay!

Thanks!

[Robin6772]

Thanks george73!

I did take ibuprofen and even a prescription drug, both of which didn't work.  My exercise routine is basically nill at this point with the cold weather season so it's not too much activity that's irritating it...but thanks for the thoughts.  I appreciate it!

[ammo76]

i have been haven the same problem but with my right foot and leg most days i cant get a shoe on and walking can be painfull i live in my flip flops i feels as old as my nan who is 76 and has more life in her legs than i do in mine

[george73]

Have the docs thought or mentioned anything about your ankle being irated? (SP!) Maybe since you had surgery the bone is iratated. Ask them about taking Ibuprofen for the swelling. My daughters  (12) has a problem with her knee swelling. The doc. said it is a _________ ( long german name) syndrom. Basically it swells when she gets to much exercise. So sports are limited. She was advised to take Ibuprofen for the swelling, ice it and take it easy till the swelling goes down. If she doesn't out grow this it will reqiure surgery after she is fully matured. Don't know if this helped at all.