Natural Treatment Remedies for Swollen Ankles

As a cardiologist, swollen ankles and legs are a common complaint in my office. People may come into my office with swollen ankles, but they don’t leave with them. We provide solutions.

Swollen ankles are usually not a cause for concern, especially if you’ve been standing or walking for long periods. But feet or ankles that stay swollen with other symptoms as well could be a sign of a serious medical condition.

What Causes Swollen Ankles?

There are a variety of causes of swollen ankles. Some of the main causes include:

  • Injuries – A sprained or broken ankle often leads to swelling.
  • Infections – Cuts or blisters can become infected, which in turn can lead to swelling.
  • Blood clots – Clots can block the major veins in your legs and cause swelling. If they break loose and travel to your lungs or heart, this could be life-threatening. If you have swelling, pain, a fever and possibly some discoloration, contact your holistic doctor immediately.
  • Heart, Liver or Kidney Disease – Swelling is sometimes an indicator of a problem with heart, liver or kidney function. If your swelling is accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of appetite or weight gain, see your holistic doctor right away or call 911.
  • Medications – Steroids, antidepressants, diabetes medications, anti-inflammatories, oral contraceptives, calcium channel blockers and more can cause ankle swelling. If you suspect medications are causing your swollen ankles, speak with your holistic doctor right away.
  • Venous insufficiency – This is the most common cause for ankle swelling in people that come to see us for treatment. Venous insufficiency is a condition known as venous insufficiency. Basically, the ability of the veins to return blood back to the heart is overwhelmed by the normal arterial blood flow into the area. Gravity keeps fluid in the legs. Sitting and standing in one place lead to collection of fluid in the lower extremities. Think a mark where the top of your sock sits. Some swelling, known as edema, is common and normal, but there comes a point where the swollen ankles are uncomfortable and even painful.

Natural Treatment Remedies for Swollen Ankles

If your swollen ankles are accompanied by any of the symptoms described previously in this article, please see your holistic doctor.

Some of the more effective natural treatment remedies for swollen ankles include:

  • Elevation – Keep your legs elevated. Instead of sitting or standing for long periods, kick back and relax. Get those legs up. Even elevating a bit can make a difference.
  • Ice – For injury related swelling, ice can combat swelling.
  • Wraps – Wraps are effective treatment for injuries, especially sprained ankles.
  • Wear compression stockings – Compression socks help prevent blood from pooling in the legs. They slow the progression of vein disease and decrease the risk of blood clots. They control swelling.
  • Drink proper amounts of water – Drink one half of your body weight in ounces of water each day. A properly hydrated body resists swelling. Avoid drinking sodas, other sugary beverages, and beverages with caffeine.
  • Eat the right foods – Avoid salts. Eat organic Paleo foods for optimal health.
  • Nutritional supplements – The right nutritional supplements support healthy veins and blood flow. In addition to our Foundation 5, we recommend the following supplements:
    • Vein Support is an evidence-based product that supports healthy veins.
    • Paleo Cleanse is a phenomenal protein powder that does so much more. It provides support for your liver, gall bladder, kidney and intestines. How can that not help swollen ankles and legs?
    • Detoxicore is a capsule product that provides liver and kidney nutrients along with anti-inflammatories and anti-oxidants.

 

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