Hi, I am a practising complementary therapist, and I am shocked that the GP wasn't more concerned! In the first instance I would recommend that they go back to their GP again just to make sure.
If everything is ok, then I find that reflexology always helps swollen ankles, feet and legs (as this is normally due to fluid retention). Also your neighbour should make sure that they drink plenty of water (to flush toxins out of their system) and also take walking exercise during the day to keep any lymph build up in their bodies moving.
Hope this helps.
Allison