U.S. doctors online nowAsk doctors free
Miami, FL
A 22-year-old female asked:

Sprained foot 2 days ago nd there was swelling at top of the foot. this morning swelling displaced towards the ankle area. no pain but is this normal?

4 doctor answers6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Thomas Deberardino
Orthopedic Surgery 34 years experience
Can be normal: A sprain generates localized tissue swelling in the zone of injury. Swelling is basically a collection of fluid. Fluid around an injured foot or ankle will follow, somewhat, the laws of gravity. So, swelling from an injured foot, that may be elevated slight above the ankle, can lead to migration of the tissue swelling toward the ankle--or perhaps the ankle is injured too.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Lee Wittenberg
Podiatry 23 years experience
Soft tissue injury: Sprains of ligaments and tendon injuries require more time to heal because there is poor blood supply to these dense/thick/fibrous structures. Swelling may last for several months after such an injury.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Arnold Beresh
Podiatry 43 years experience
Not unusual: After a sprain different areas may swell and bruise, continue range of motion and stretching.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Payam Rafat
Podiatry 24 years experience
It is possible.: Swelling and bruising may move from one area to another following an injury.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Sep 28, 2016

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.