Ankle impingement, also known as anterior ankle impingement, is a condition in which there is pinching or compression of the soft tissue structures in the front of the ankle joint. This can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when flexing or extending the ankle joint.
Ankle impingement is often caused by repetitive stress or trauma to the ankle joint, such as from sports activities that involve jumping, running, or pivoting. It can also be caused by abnormal bony growths or bone spurs that develop in the ankle joint.
Symptoms of ankle impingement may include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the ankle joint. The pain may be worse during activity and may improve with rest.
Treatment for ankle impingement may depend on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. Non-surgical treatment options may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy), physical therapy to help improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the ankle joint, and the use of pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help manage pain and reduce swelling.
In more severe cases of ankle impingement, surgery may be necessary to remove the bony growths or spurs that are causing the compression of the soft tissue structures in the ankle joint. Recovery from surgery may require a period of immobilisation, followed by physical therapy and rehabilitation to restore strength and range of motion to the affected ankle joint.