Ankle pain: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Go to an emergency department after an injury if:

   • The ankle is clearly deformed or bone is visible
   • The foot becomes cold, pale, blue, or persistently numb
   • There is uncontrolled bleeding or a deep open wound
   • The injury followed a major fall, collision, or crushing force
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek same-day care if the ankle is hot, red, and swollen and you have a fever or feel generally unwell, as this can indicate infection.

   Same-day assessment is also sensible after an injury if you cannot take a few steps, swelling is severe or rapidly increasing, or pain remains intense despite rest.

   Get prompt advice if you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced feeling in your feet, or a weakened immune system and develop swelling, redness, or a wound.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is getting rapidly more short of breath, or has gained several pounds in a few days with swelling
   • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a routine appointment if pain worsens, keeps returning, interferes with normal activities, or is not clearly improving after about two weeks of self-care.

   Persistent morning stiffness, unexplained swelling, or pain in several joints also needs assessment.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Ankle pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.