Ankle impingement is sometimes called a footballer’s ankle. This causes pain in the front of the ankle joint and is due to the buildup of scar tissue or bone spurs. Ankle impingement occurs usually in response to an acute injury or chronic stress. Impingement refers to the abnormal entrapment of structures that result in pain or restrict mobility.
There are several common causes of anterior ankle impingement. Below are some of the most common causes of ankle impingement
- Chronic and repetitive strain on the ankle
- Activities that require repetitive bending of the foot upward
- Trauma to the ankle like a recurrent ankle sprain
Sports that can cause anterior ankle impingement:-
- Football
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Running
- Ballet
- Basketball
Common symptoms include:
- Dull ache when resting
- Tenderness to touch
- Swelling in front of the ankle
- Locking of the ankle joint
As per the symptoms and signs of the anterior ankle impingement, the doctor will determine the issue and identify the areas of tenderness and inflammation. Below are some tests for the right diagnosis:-
- X-ray
- Ankle impingement test
- Asked to make some specific ankle movements
Treatment of anterior ankle impingement usually involves the following:
- Resting and avoiding activities that will aggravate your injury like lunging, running, jumping, etc.
- Ice packs
- Compression
- Elevation of the leg
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Wearing a special ankle brace to support your ankle
- Physical therapy exercises
