Anterior Ankle Impingement Syndrome

The ankle joint is comprised of two bones - the tibia and talus, which glide on one another and have articular cartilage that cushions the impact of the tibia on the talus during weight-bearing activity.

During the movement of ankle dorsiflexion the foot and shin move towards one another, meaning the tibia approaches the front of the talus. This places compressive forces on the structures at the front of the ankle joint. If these forces are in excess or beyond what the ankle can withstand, damage and inflammation of these structures can occur.

Repeated compression at the front or anterior aspect of the ankle joint results in pinching of the joint capsule and synovium that is responsible for generating pain in patients with anterior ankle impingement.

In some cases, this repeated compression of the anterior ankle joint can lead to bone spurs, otherwise known as osteophytes to form on the front edge of the tibia or talus.

Main Causes:

Anterior ankle impingement most commonly occurs as a result of:

• Ankle Sprain
• Recurrent Ankle Sprains
• Activities that require repeated Dorsiflexion of the Ankle - such as landing and deep squatting.

Your Physiotherapist at MyoDynamic is highly trained in identifying these and correcting them to reduce your risk of developing anterior ankle impingement.

Some of the factors that can contribute to the development of this condition include:

• inadequate rehabilitation following a previous ankle injury
• joint stiffness or swelling
• bony anomalies
• poor foot biomechanics

Custom Orthotics Designed For Ankle Injury.

• Heel lift posting - in order to reduce dorsiflexion by placing the foot in a plantar flexed position.
• Customized arch support - aids in dissipating the pressure throughout the foot and alleviating the outer aspect of the ankle.
• Shock absorbent heel cushioning - aids in dissipating pressure throughout the foot and offsetting impact at the ankle region.
• Wide base - this will maintain stability in the shoe and prevent any ankle sprains/rolls from occurring.
• Neutral casting - to align your feet and lower limbs in order to place them in the most optimal position for gait.
• Deep heel cup - will lock the heel in place, allow your foot to maintain neutral position and place adipose 'soft' tissue under the heel bone to reduce the effect of impact forces.
• Perforated top-cover - shock absorbent materials that wicks away sweat and bacteria while allowing for effective transfer of air and perspiration, resulting in a cool, dry environment.