Ankle Impingement

Ankle Impingement is a condition causing pain in the front of the ankle, due to compression of the bone or soft tissue structures during activities that involve maximum ankle motion.

Causes:

👣 Ankle Sprain

👣 Recurrent ankle sprain

👣 Activities requiring repeated dorsiflexion of the ankle e.g squatting

👣 Inadequate rehab

👣 Joint stiffness

👣 Muscle tightness

👣 Poor biomechanics

👣 Inappropriate training

👣 Inadequate warm up

👣 Poor core stability

👣 Poor proprioception or balance

Symptoms:

👣 Dull ache in front of the ankle

👣 Pain following: Deep squat, Excessive running/walking, landing from jump, Heavy lifting, twisting activities

Treatment:

👣 Follow the POLICE protocol:

Protection- Rest for the first few days following injury , however, you should then begin gentle motions to maintain movement and avoid a decreased muscle strength and flexibility. You may require assistive devices at this time, for example crutches.

Optimal Loading- Whilst protecting the effected area, gentle movement should be started to help promote optimal healing of the injury and prevent delay in returning to normal activities.

Ice- Apply ice to help manage swelling. Ice can also help decrease some acute pain.

Compression- Compression bandaging will help reduce swelling as a result of the inflammatory process.

Elevation- Elevating the foot above heart level will help reduce swelling by allowing fluid to drain from the area.

👣 When comfortable begin a rehab program of the ankle

👣 See a Physio for treatment program

What can a Podiatrist do:

👣 Biomechanical assessment

👣 Orthotic prescription

👣 Taping

👣 Joint mobilisation techniques

👣 Exercises