Ankle Impingement
What is it?
There are many causes for ankle impingement which can include bony of soft tissue changes. It can be present at the front or the back of the ankle.
It is more common in people who place repetitive load through their ankles such as footballers and dancers.
Typical symptoms/features
- Dull ache at the front or back of the ankle, which can become sharp with excessive movement or weight-bearing
- Tender to press around the front or back of the joint
- Stiffness when bringing your toes towards the body
- Swelling of the ankle
- Pain worse with running, jumping and deep squats
Management
- Activity modification
- When you first start noticing ankle pain, it may help to reduce your activity for a short amount of time to allow the pain to settle
- However, there is strong evidence that says keeping active and slowly returning to your normal levels of activity can actually help the pain to settle quicker
- Ice or heat
- Pain relief
- Orthotics
- Physiotherapy including a range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme
- In cases with severe and/or prolonged symptoms, an orthopaedic opinion may be beneficial
Do I need imaging?
Imaging (X-rays or scans) are rarely required to diagnose ankle impingement.
X-rays and scans are most appropriately used after a serious injury.
