Hello
Persistent swelling in one foot for years after an injury is most often due to venous insufficiency, lymphatic damage (lymphedema), or chronic soft-tissue/ligament injury.
The redness and warmth mean ongoing inflammation and should be checked.
What to do: Get a Doppler ultrasound of the leg veins (to rule out vein problems).
Consider an MRI of the foot/ankle if pain and swelling persist (to look for ligament or soft-tissue damage).
Use compression stockings, elevate the leg, and avoid prolonged standing.
See an orthopedist or vascular specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
I trust this helps Thank you
Swelling in your left foot that has persisted for about two years since a football injury suggests a few possibilities that could be causing the chronic swelling and redness. Given the nature of your concern, there might be something like an old ligament injury that hasn’t healed properly, a bone fracture that wasn’t fully resolved, or possibly a chronic condition such as arthritis which may have developed post-injury. It’s also possible there could be an issue with the tendons, such as tendinitis, especially if the joint or foot area is frequently used or stressed. In the more serious end of the spectrum, though less likely, we’d have to consider something like circulatory issues or a slow-healing infection. The redness suggests ongoing inflammation or maybe vascular issues as well.
Given the duration and symptoms, it’s important to have it examined by a doctor—preferably an orthopedist or a podiatrist—who can provide a more accurate diagnosis, often starting with a physical exam and likely moving to imaging like an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to get a detailed look at the underlying structures. For now, it’s crucial to avoid activities that exacerbate the swelling or pain, definitely avoid putting unnecessary strain on the foot. Elevating the foot when resting, applying ice and using anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, may provide some relief, but these are temporary measures. Physical therapy might be recommended post-diagnosis to help improve flexibility, strength, and mobility, depending on the identified cause. If there’s any sudden increase in pain, swelling, or new symptoms like fever, immediate medical attention is warranted to rule out acute issues.
Because your swelling is only in one foot (left side), has lasted for 2 years after an injury, worsens with standing/walking, and is sometimes warm and slightly red, this is not simple temporary swelling and likely related to a chronic local problem in that leg rather than a whole-body issue.
The most likely causes include old ligament or soft tissue injury that didn’t fully heal, chronic inflammation, venous (blood flow) problems, lymphatic drainage issues, or post-traumatic swelling (post-traumatic edema). After injuries, scar tissue or damaged veins/lymph channels can cause fluid to collect in the foot, especially by the end of the day. Warmth and redness may also suggest ongoing inflammation. Since it’s only one foot, heart/kidney causes are unlikely. Visit nearest physician for better evaluation.
