Swollen ankles are a common problem. From compression socks to elevation, here's how to get rid of them.

Swollen ankles, also known as edema, are brought about by the buildup of fluid around the ankles, feet and legs. Most of the time, swollen ankles are temporary and not a cause for concern. However, it is possible that the swelling could be a symptom of a more serious health condition. 

USA TODAY spoke with the experts to lay out the actionable steps you can take to find relief from swollen ankles. From compression socks to leg exercises, we’ll break down everything you need to know about managing this common problem.

What are swollen ankles?

For the average healthy person, swollen ankles are usually temporary. Symptoms of edema include “puffiness, skin discoloration, and a feeling of tightness,” says Dr. Dana Brems, DPM, a podiatrist and foot surgeon. 

Swollen ankles often occur after periods of “prolonged sitting and inactivity,” such as sitting on a plane, Brems says. Over time, inactivity can cause “fluid to accumulate in the lower extremities,” she explains.

Conversely, swollen ankles can also result from standing for long periods of time, says Dr. Megan Ishibashi, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon. If your profession requires you to be up on your feet for work, “when you're standing all day long, all that fluid gets built up,” she says. 

Swollen ankles are commonly experienced during pregnancy, Ishibashi adds. According to the NHS, swollen ankles can also be caused by obesity or eating salty foods.

When should I be concerned about swollen ankles?

Swollen ankles aren’t typically a cause for concern, but they can be an indication of an underlying illness. 

Swollen ankles can be triggered by an infection, blood clot, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, or an injury to the ankle or foot, says Ishibashi. It is also a common side effect of certain medications, according to Healthline. 

Pitting edema occurs when swelling of the ankle or foot is so intense that a visible indentation can be left in the skin after being touched, says Ishibashi. Pitting edema can be a sign of a more serious health concern, including conditions of the heart, lungs, kidney, liver, or veins, per WebMD.

How to get rid of swollen ankles fast

Based on the root cause of symptoms, treatment for edema will always vary from person to person. Generally speaking, to find relief from ankle swelling, “elevate the legs, wear compression socks, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged standing or sitting,” Brems recommends. “Gentle exercises can also help improve circulation,” she adds.

Elevation of the feet is effective at reducing swelling because it encourages the accumulation of fluid to dissipate, Ishibashi says. Similarly, compression socks promote the drainage of fluid by physically pushing it back up toward your heart, she adds. 

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How many days does it take for ankle swelling to go down?

“The duration for ankle swelling to subside can vary based on the cause,” Brems says. “Minor swelling due to injury may reduce in a few days, while swelling from medical conditions may take longer and require ongoing management.”