<s>[INST] Hi, my query is about a swollen ankle. I have degenerative arthritis of the spine affecting all my lumbar discs and so far treatment is 7 steroid injections twice a year which do help, however, my right ankle is always swollen compared to the left and I am wondering if there is a connection. One doctor suggested that it was normal thickening of the skin. I am a 64 year old female and weigh 10st 7lbs and my height is 5ft 5 . I am very self conscious of the swollen ankle. I do get leg pain in that leg and sometimes my foot goes numb when the pain is very bad. I would appreciate your thoughts. Thank you. Mrs Doreen Johnson [/INST] Hello, At this age if you are having continuous swelling at your ankle with associated swelling then this can be due to associated arthritic changes at your ankle. As you are already having arthritis of spine, so there is maximum probability of having this at your ankle. You should do following to have relief in this- -Take a good analgesic like Advil or Tylenol for relief.-Apply warm fomentation over affected ankle at least 3 times a day.-Take some joint supplements like collagen preparations, glucosamine or Chen Chat Doctor.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care  </s>