How to treat swollen and achy ankle bones after an injury?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was hit on the inside ankle bone by a very hard baseball size rubber two weeks ago. It flew out from under a lawnmower like a projectile. It immediately swelled up and bruised a lot. It has been slightly over two weeks and is still relatively swollen and achy, especially at night. I can walk on it, but it is sore. It is sore to the touch, too, but does not pain severely. Should I wait it out? I am quite broke and cannot afford X-rays unless necessary.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for contacting icliniq, and sorry to hear about your injury. It is unlikely that the described injury has caused a fracture. However, the only way to be certain is to do an X-ray. The injury might have crushed your tissues, causing pain, swelling, and bruising. I suggest elevation, ice packs, anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprefen, and gentle ankle movements to prevent stiffness. If symptoms persist and do not improve, a clinical assessment by a healthcare professional is mandatory.

Thank you.