The term cankles describes ankles that appear thick and blend into the calves without the usual tapering. While some people naturally have this body type due to genetics, swollen ankles can also create the appearance of cankles.

Ankle swelling can stem from lifestyle habits, medical conditions, injuries, or pregnancy. Although not usually dangerous, it can sometimes signal serious health issues that need medical attention.

What Do Cankles Look Like?

With cankles, the lower leg does not narrow at the ankle, making the calf and ankle appear as one continuous part.

possible symptoms with swelling

  • Warmth and redness around the ankle or foot

  • Soreness or discomfort while walking

  • Puffiness or fluid build-up in the lower leg

Common Causes of Cankles

Cankles may be caused by edema (fluid retention), extra fat deposits, or a combination of both.

Lifestyle Factors

  • High-salt diet: Leads to fluid retention and ankle swelling.

  • Prolonged standing or sitting: Can cause swelling, especially in hot weather.

  • Inactivity and excess weight: Increases pressure on the lower body and circulation issues.

  • Sunburns or insect bites: May trigger local swelling in the ankles.

Injuries

  • Sprains, fractures, or direct injuries to the ankle or foot

  • Damage to the talus bone can cause cartilage defects, swelling, and instability

  • Post-surgical swelling, especially after pelvic procedures

Pregnancy and Complications

  • Mild swelling is common due to increased blood volume and fluid retention.

  • Severe swelling may indicate preeclampsia (pregnancy-related high blood pressure), which can be life-threatening.

Medications

Certain drugs may cause fluid build-up, including:

  • Antidepressants (MAOIs, tricyclics)

  • Birth control and hormone therapy

  • Calcium channel blockers (for high blood pressure)

  • Steroids and testosterone therapy

Medical Conditions

  • Congestive heart failure – when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively

  • Kidney or liver disease – leading to fluid accumulation

  • Blood clots – blocking circulation in one leg

  • Lymphedema – fluid build-up due to poor lymph drainage

  • Venous insufficiency – veins failing to return blood efficiently to the heart

  • Lipedema – abnormal fat storage in the lower body

When To Seek Medical Care

See a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Sudden ankle swelling

  • Swelling worse in one leg than the other

  • Redness, warmth, or fever with swelling

  • History of heart, kidney, or liver disease

  • Severe swelling during pregnancy

medical emergency signs

Call 911 if swelling occurs with shortness of breath, chest pain, or pressure, as these may indicate a blood clot or heart problem.

Treatment Options for Cankles

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

conservative approaches

  • Elevate legs when resting

  • Wear compression socks to support circulation

  • Follow a low-salt diet to reduce water retention

  • Stay active and avoid long periods of sitting or standing

  • Try physical therapy or calf-strengthening exercises

  • Get lymphatic drainage massage to reduce swelling

  • Use diuretics (water pills) only under medical guidance

medical and surgical options

  • Surgery for fractures, bone defects, or persistent injuries

  • Liposuction or umbilicoplasty-style procedures for genetic or fat-related cankles

  • Surgical correction for venous or lymphatic blockages

  • Treatment for underlying heart, liver, or kidney disease

Tips for Managing Ankle Swelling

Even if genetics play a role, lifestyle changes can make cankles less noticeable.

  • Avoid tight clothing or shoes that restrict circulation

  • Exercise regularly to boost blood flow and shed excess weight

  • Strengthen calf muscles with targeted exercises for better leg definition

  • Maintain a balanced diet low in salt and high in nutrients

Quick Summary

Cankles—ankles that appear wide or blend into the calves—may be a normal body variation or caused by swelling from fluid retention, injuries, medications, pregnancy, or medical conditions.

Treatment ranges from simple lifestyle changes to medical interventions, depending on the cause. Seek urgent care if swelling appears suddenly, is severe, or comes with chest pain or shortness of breath.