Leg and ankle swelling can be classified into two groups: swelling due to fluid buildup, and swelling due to inflammation. Leg and ankle swelling are a result of a variety of causes, from a broken ankle to problems with the heart. Other signs and symptoms that a person develops can help determine the cause of the swelling.
Broken Bone
There are more than two dozen bones in a person's foot and three bones in each ankle, reports MayoClinic.com. A break can be a tiny fracture or a bone can shatter and pierce through the skin. Signs and symptoms of a broken bone can include pain, swelling, bruising, the ankle or leg may look deformed, tenderness and the inability put weight on the ankle or leg. Treatment depends on the severity of the break and which bone or bones were broken. A cast to immobilize the bones and allow them to heal back together may be needed. In some severe cases, surgery is needed to place screws and pins to attach the broken bones together.
Achilles Tendon Rupture
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, reports the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. The Achilles tendon is responsible for lifting the heel off the ground and allowing a person to walk. The Achilles tendon can tear completely or partially when the tendon is stretched beyond its normal capability. Signs and symptoms can include a sharp pain in the back of the calf or ankle, a popping or snapping sensation, swelling of the ankle and pain when trying to walk. Treatment includes staying off the injured foot and elevating the foot, applying ice and wrapping an elastic bandage around the foot and ankle to reduce swelling.
Heart Problems
Congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy and other heart problems can cause swelling in one leg and ankle and not the other. The swelling of the leg and foot is due to fluid buildup, called edema. Narrow arteries from fatty buildup and weak heart muscles make it difficult for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. According to the MayoClinic.com, signs and symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath during activity and at rest, irregular pulse, dizziness and swelling in the leg. Treatment depends on the diagnosis of the heart problem. Medications, minor and major surgery may be required to treat the heart problem.
