Expert: Dr. Marc Katz - 5/23/2009

Question
Hello...Two weeks ago, I injured my ankle. A large case holding a pop up tent fell back and slid on it's wheels into my ankle. The hard plastic foot of the case seemed to hit the hardest. I had a small cut and immediate swelling and bruising in the area where the front of my leg meets my foot. It was painful, but I was able to walk on the ankle. Over the next two weeks, the bruise spread down the top of my foot and around the swollen area. X-rays were negative, but 2 weeks later, I still have a round swollen area and bruising about 1 inch in diameter at the point of impact. I do not have constant pain, but experience painful episodes when sitting for too long, going up and down stairs, or just being on my feet for too long. I am also still uncomfortable wearing a sock or sneakers due to the bruising and swelling. Sandals seem to be the only thing that doesn't bother me. Could this be a fracture that was missed by the Xray, or is it more likely to be just bruising? Thanks for your time.

Answer
Hi Joann,

It is likely a soft tissue injury or bruise.  However, if the pain continues, I would get an MRI to evaluate the area further.  You could also have an infection.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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