The attack of gout

Theoretically, an attack of gout can cause swelling of the ankle. However, the ankle joint is not the classic joint that hurts during a gout attack. The metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe is much more frequently affected. However, if the excess uric acid accumulates in the ankle joint, it also leads to an immense inflammation here, which can also manifest itself with a painful swelling.

The lymphedema

In lymphedema, fluid stored in the tissue cannot be removed via the so-called lymph vessels. As a result, more and more fluid accumulates and the affected extremity increases in size. A swelling of the ankles can thus be caused by lymphedema. In this case, it is important to clarify in each individual case whether it is a congenital or acquired disorder and whether it is reversible or irreversible. The therapy of choice is lymphatic drainage and compression treatment in the form of stockings or tights.

The torn muscle fiber of the calf

Depending on the extent of the muscle injury, a torn muscle fibre in the calf can lead to swelling of the ankle. Small tears are more likely to cause local bleeding into the muscle, which usually only leads to swelling of the calf. However, if the muscle fiber tear is so large that the inflammatory reaction is very pronounced, a swelling of the ankle can also occur. The reason for this is that the increased blood circulation in the area of the tear also releases more fluid into the tissue. If a lot of fluid migrates down along the muscle lobe, it finally collects in the area of the ankle and leads to an increase in circumference there.

The bone fracture

A fracture in the area of the ankle joint almost always results in a swelling of the ankle. When bone structures break, vessels are usually also injured. As a result, there is bleeding into the tissue.

This is enough to cause a swelling of the ankle. An additional aggravating factor is that the injury induces an inflammatory reaction, which is accompanied by increased blood flow and further increases the swelling.

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