About the disease
Ankle impingement syndrome is characterized by compression of the ankle tissue while performing certain physical activities or movements with the ankle. It can develop in either the bony or soft tissue structure of the ankle, causing pain and difficulty of movement.
There are three main bones in the ankle: the tibia, fibula and talus. Normally, there is a protective layer of cartilage that prevents these bones from rubbing against each other when an individual is moving around. Joints are in particular need of this cushioning when lifting heavy objects. If there is repeated compression on the ankle bones, it can lead to ankle impingement syndrome.
Multiple ankle sprains can cause compression of the ankle tissue. It is common for footballers, dancers, athletes and soldiers to sprain their ankle during physical activities, especially long deep squatting. Weightlifting can be especially dangerous, as it puts pressure on the joints, particularly on the ankles and feet. When training, it is important to always warm up before doing serious exercise, to avoid injuries and sprains. Previous ankle surgery can also lead to ankle impingement syndrome, so it is important to not overdo physical activities until the ankle recovers completely.
Symptoms
- Dull pain in the ankle
- Pain increases when moving the ankle, especially walking or running
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Feeling of compression
- Clicking sensation when stretching the ankle
Diagnosis
- During a general examination, the doctor will examine the patient’s ankle and ask them to move it in various positions to find out where the pain is coming from.
- The doctor will also check the tissue that cushions the ankle bones and will see if they meet unnaturally.
- The doctor will ask the patient if they do any strenuous physical training.
- Imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI or CT scan, show the exact location of the impingement and can also help doctors to diagnose bone spurs (which can develop as a complication of ankle impingement syndrome).
Treatment
- Conservative treatment, such as using ice and compression bandages can restore the ankle’s normal position and reduce swelling.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed, to alleviate the pain.
- It is usually recommended that the patient reduce or stop physical activity during the recovery period.
- Physical therapy is important for restoring the normal full range of motion of the ankle. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are recommended to alleviate the pain.
- Ankle arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that repairs ankle bones in the case of ankle impingement syndrome and bone spurs. After the surgery, the patient will need to undergo physical therapy.
Authors: Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, Dr. Sergey Pashchenko
