If you are wondering what cankles are and what causes them in the first place, then you are at the right spot today. In this article, we will explain cankles in detail so that if you are suffering from this condition, you know what to do about it.
Explore what are cankles – The term “Cankle” is basically a combination of “ankle” and “calf.” In short, it’s a slang word that people and medical professionals often use to describe a leg with a calf that does not taper down to the ankle. The term is often used to convey an illustration of a missing ankle. This happens when there are excessive fat cells and fluid in the ankle, which later causes the removal of the natural rejuvenation of the ankle and calf.
However, if you don’t see any swelling around your ankle, there’s nothing to worry about with cankles. As far as the reason this happens is concerned, it depends on person to person, but the most common cause is the increase of fat cells or genetics.
What Causes Cankles?
To know how to get rid of cankles, it’s essential that you first understand why this happens. Here are some explanations that explain cankles;
1-It’s All In Your Genes
Genetics plays a significant role in determining the structure of your body. The same is the case here with cankles that if any one of your parents had “cankles” or “thick” ankles, then there are chances that you’ll have them too. This happens when you or any of your parents are overweight or when there’s naturally less definition between your ankles and calves. The latter is quite common too, and it can happen to anyone, even someone with average body weight.
2-Poor Circulation During Pregnancy
Women develop cankles during pregnancy, which happens due to poor blood circulation or decreased physical activity during that particular period. When it’s a troubled circulation system, you’ll experience both fluid retention and swelling around your ankles. However, there’s nothing to worry about here because when the pregnancy is over, cankles will go away naturally.
For those who aren’t even pregnant but do experience swelling in their lower legs. Water retention usually happens due to excessive consumption of sodium. So to fix this problem, you are advised to reduce your salt intake and shift your diet to greens and fruits. Both fruits and vegetables can work wonders for you if you are experiencing water retention in your body. Another best step to take to get rid of water retention is to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. When your blood circulation increases, you’ll automatically be able to reduce water retention.
If your lower legs start swelling a lot, and you don’t know what to do about cankles, this might be a sign of chronic venous insufficiency. In this situation, it’s better to consult your doctor or see a vein specialist.
3-Varicose Veins And Cankles
For those who don’t know, varicose veins are different from cankles. As we all know, the primary function of veins is to carry oxygen-rich blood to our heart and around the body. But when your veins or vein walls become damaged, it can lead to a condition called chronic venous insufficiency. With swollen ankles, you’ll also experience skin discoloration. As said earlier, in this case, it’s best to go for a check-up with a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.
How To Get Rid Of Cankles?
When it’s genetic, you can’t pretty much do about cankles. Still, suppose it’s because of being overweight or water retention. In that case, the best solution to this problem is to have a balanced and healthy diet. You need to start consuming more vegetables and fruits, and lean protein to ensure that your body gets all the proper nutrients. On the other hand, you can also try working out. Try different calf and ankle exercises to target these areas. This can work wonders for you and help reduce cankles.
Especially if you are prone to the type of body structure that quickly gains fat, the best solution is exercise. You don’t specifically need to hit the gym for tough workout sessions. All you have to do is walk for at least 30 minutes every day and opt for specific exercises that will target your ankles and calves.
Here are some essential exercises that can help prevent fat accumulation around your ankles.
Squats
Rope skipping
Lunges
Calf lifts
People who can’t lose weight or get rid of their obesity often fall victim to a condition called “lipoedema.” In this condition, the body stores fat in particular areas like arms, legs, and the abdomen. Most women fall victim to this condition, and the best solution to this problem is manual lymphatic drainage. You can opt for other treatments, too, but it all depends on your body type.
