Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I banged my ankle about 6-8 months ago, while at church. We met at a school, and I was helping fold up the rolling cafeteria benches. The metal was very hard. It has been bruised and swollen since the injury. I can walk on it. But, it seems a long time for such swelling to continue. I wondered if maybe I have some bone fractures, not complete breaks. It also affected the veins in my left leg, they are swollen like a varicose vein. I went to the medical clinic, and they think it was sprained. I have never sprained an ankle by hitting, it... only by twisting it. Inside left ankle by the way. I am 53, and while overweight... I am very active normally and walk several miles a week. I have a 2 story house. So, I am not inactive, or just dealing with mild arthritis. I do not have diabetes or any other health concerns. I remember cracked ribs take longer to heal, wondered if this might be a similar type of injury.
[|AI|]  Hello, Thanks for writing to us, I have studied your case with diligence. As per your history and injury pattern there can be persistent tear in ankle ligament leading to pain and swelling. Instability may increase due to laxity of ligament. I will advise repeating MRI ankle for soft tissue involvement. Till time, you can continue use supportive splint or brace. Physiotherapy like ultrasound and TENS will help in early healing. Persistent pain after ankle injury is common and may take 6 months to heal. If there is complete ligament tear on lateral aspect then arthroscopic ankle ligament repair can be done. Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow-up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries. Wishing you good health. Take care.