What does ankle impingement feel like? At Blackberry Clinic we have physios who are experts in treatment and rehab of ankle injuries. Pain in the ankle can present in different ways for different reasons so it is important to get an accurate diagnosis to determine the best course of treatment for an optimal outcome. One of our physio team members, Steve Hockham, who works at Blackberry Clinic Milton Keynes, offers some information here on ankle impingement, symptoms, causes and treatment.
Here is what Steve has to say:
CAUSES
Ankle impingement is common and is often seen in runners. It is also commonly experienced by dancers, (particularly ballet) and footballers. The pain can develop over time but can also be sudden onset/traumatic in nature.
SYMPTOMS
Ankle impingement can cause pain in the front (anterior) or the back (posterior) of the ankle and can have different causes. It is sometimes a secondary condition following ankle sprain. It can also be caused by a condition called Os Trigonum. This is where a person has additional bone formation in the back of the ankle which can lead to entrapment of soft tissue structures. It is usually noticed when the ankle is taken to its end of range in dorsiflexion (pointing foot and toes up towards you) or plantarflexion (pointing foot and toes downwards). Where you feel pain will be determined by the type of impingement you have.
Symptoms would potentially include:
· Persistent pain (this can be sharp or a grumbling ache)
· Instability
· Swelling
· Giving way
· A blocked sensation
· Reduced range of movement
· Sensory disturbances
TREATMENT
In some cases, imaging may be used to establish the extent and nature of the impingement, however this is not always required and can often be improved with Physiotherapy.
Your Physiotherapist will examine the ankle, and will also assess hamstring, calf and foot mobility and strength. Your gait pattern and bio-mechanics would also be assessed for any movement dysfunction which may be causing or contributing to your symptoms.
You may then benefit from movement coaching, strength and balance programmes, joint mobility techniques and a variety of manual therapy treatments aimed at reducing pain and restoring a more appropriate level of function in the ankle joint. In the short term your Physiotherapist may also use taping techniques to help to alleviate symptoms and facilitate better movement.
If you are struggling with persistent ankle pain in the back or the front of the ankle, visit a physiotherapist at Blackberry Clinic to establish the nature of the pain. Ankle impingement can be mistaken for several other conditions so it’s important not to let it go unchecked. You may well find that whatever your hobby, you will potentially be able to improve performance with a simple bio-mechanical analysis as well as getting rid of the pain.
Steve Hockham
Physiotherapist Blackberry Clinic Milton Keynes
