swollen ankles

[Blackcatlover]

Taking a trip to the mountains for four days. I will be eating at a lodge. Last year I came home with swollen ankles. Any tips on how to avoid this? I’m currently taking 4mg of prednisone.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

When you say "I will be eating at a lodge" - is that commercially prepared meals? I always found that more than 2 days eating food in a hotel or restaurant results in swollen ankles! They use far more salt than most home cooking - and definitely more than me! There is salt in my salad herbs, nothing else!

[Blackcatlover in reply to PMRpro]

We are staying in cabins and eating at the lodge restaurant for three nights. Menu looks awesome but I’m sure lots of salt. I have compression socks that I’m going to wear while hiking. My ankles did go down after one day at home. Guess they might be the price I have to pay for my mountain fix.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Blackcatlover]

Might be worth asking if they offer dietary options - i.e. low salt. Or is it pretty basic?

On your part - drink lots of water. Not that that is practical while out walking I suppose. And feet up above heart level - although if it is too much salt that won't be as effective.

[Blackcatlover in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks I will ask.

[Grammy80 in reply to Blackcatlover]

Yes, the good old compression hose~! That was going to be my suggestion. You can get some pretty wild prints~! Have a great time~!💞

[Blackcatlover in reply to Grammy80]

Thank you! I bought boring basic black!😜

[Grammy80 in reply to Blackcatlover]

Actually, that is all I have. I might get creative next year in the warmth~! 💞

[123-go]

Lucky you! Not in terms of swollen ankles, though 😏.

I would suggest (you probably wear these) proper walking shoes/boots and walking socks- not cheap but worth the expense.

Drink plenty of water-may cause some inconvenience with there not being 'facilities' in the mountains.

Soak your feet in cool/cold water when you get back to the lodge.

Elevate your feet in the evening and during the day if possible.

Peppermint essential oil can be used to relieve swelling/inflammation but, I think, needs to be mixed with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.

Avoid sugary and salty foods/snacks.

All this is off the top of my head and I'm sure you'll get thoughts from other walkers.

Have a great time!

[Blackcatlover in reply to 123-go]

Thank you all good suggestions. I bought compression socks to try. I’m hoping they might do the trick. I’m wearing elastic waist pants because I plan on drinking lots of water as you suggest. 🥴They should be good for a quick up and down.