<s>[INST] Earlier at work I hit my ankle hard on a metal corner and it s only a little swollen and a slight bruise. Now it hurts a lot to walk and I feel a pull when I bring my foot upward. . Would you know if it s serious and also I m only 22 years old. Thanks [/INST] Hello, Can't possibly know if it is serious without an examination. And, inflammation occurs after the injury and increases. This causes accumulation of tissue fluid (swelling) the swelling causes the joint to be (temporarily mostly) deformed by the tissue fluid and less mobile. The tissue fluid distorts the area and makes it pull. Warm water causes resorption of the fluid. elevation moves it out by gravity and deep water submersion pushes it out. So, warm water soak in deep water such as a pool usually helps fairly quickly. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr. Matt Wachsman </s>