What is the effective solution to relieve discomfort due to a swollen ankle and red veins?

Question

Hi doctor,

My mother is 52 years old and has been suffering from a swollen right ankle for the past two years. The pain has now become unbearable for her, and the situation has worsened as she is experiencing pain in the sciatic area as well. There is a history of medical conditions including swollen ankles, accompanied by pain and the appearance of red veins on the swollen areas. She is also not responding well to steroid drugs. Details of current medication include Rozep, 4 g of Bogovit, and Zendol-P. Previous medication history for the same concern includes Valcit and Microferol (cholecalciferol). We have been trying massage, but it has not been effective. Please suggest something to help alleviate her condition.

Answer 1

Hi,

I appreciate that you have chosen icliniq.com for your medical needs.

I am here to give you the best care possible.

For the visible red veins, wearing long cotton compression socks is recommended. As for the sciatica, the following treatment steps are advised:

Avoid lifting heavy weights.
Instead of arching your back, bend your knees when picking up something from the floor.
Avoid sitting for extended periods of time.
Avoid riding a two-wheeler.
Enhance your sitting posture.
Stand up from your chair every 20 minutes, take a brief walk, and then resume work. Always use a chair with proper back support.
When getting up from a lying position, turn to the side first before standing up.
If the pain is severe, consider taking bed rest.
Apply hot compresses locally over the affected area at least twice daily.
Apply Oxalgin (a combination of Diclofenac sodium, Methyl salicylate and Menthol) gel locally twice daily.

I suggest you take the following medications:

Tablet Pregabalin 75 mg: Take one tablet before food in the evening for 10 days.
Tablet Ibuprofen 400 mg: Take one tablet after food in the morning and evening for 10 days.
Tablet Rabeprazole 20 mg: Take one tablet before food in the morning and evening for 10 days.
Tablet Shelcal (Calcium 500 mg): Take one tablet before food in the morning and evening for 30 days.
Tablet Vitamin D (60 K Units): Take one tablet daily for 10 days, then once a month for the next 11 months.

Take these tablets only if you are not allergic to them. Do not take these tablets if you have bronchial asthma. In case of any untoward reactions, seek immediate follow-up. Engage in physiotherapy, including:

McKenzie back extension exercises.
Back core strengthening exercises.
Glutei strengthening exercises.
Passive straight leg raising exercises.

These exercises can be initially done under the supervision of a physiotherapist or learned for home use. Begin physiotherapy once the pain reduces. Consistent exercise is crucial for results. After pain reduction, consider the following beneficial activities: swimming, yoga, and walking. However, jogging, running, and weight-lifting could worsen back problems.