Answer Summary

Members strongly related to experiencing swelling on the outside of their ankles, with many describing accompanying weakness, pain, and the... Read more

Members strongly related to experiencing swelling on the outside of their ankles, with many describing accompanying weakness, pain, and the frightening sensation of their legs or knees suddenly giving out, especially on stairs. Several members shared practical relief strategies including ice packs, elevation, compression socks, Epsom salt soaks, algesal cream, wearing larger shoes to accommodate swelling, and in more severe cases, fluid drainage procedures and corticosteroid injections that provided dramatic improvement. A recurring theme was the unpredictable nature of RA symptoms moving between joints without warning, the importance of holding onto handrails and using canes when needed, and the value of staying proactive with physical therapy and medication adjustments while remaining gentle with oneself through the challenges.