Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

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What is Ankle Osteochondral Lesions?

Ankle osteochondral lesions refer to damage involving both the cartilage and the underlying bone within the ankle joint, often due to trauma. These lesions can lead to persistent ankle pain, swelling, and limited range of motion, particularly during weight-bearing activities. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent long-term joint damage and functional impairment.

Ankle Osteochondral Lesions Statistics

  • Ankle osteochondral lesions affect approximately 0.09% of the general population, with a higher incidence in active individuals.
  • These lesions are more common in younger populations, particularly athletes, due to increased exposure to high-impact activities.
  • Source: NCBI - Osteochondral Lesions
  • Ankle Osteochondral Lesions Anatomy

  • Osteochondral Lesion: Involves damage to both the talar cartilage and the subchondral bone.
  • Talar Dome: Most common site for osteochondral lesions, especially the medial aspect.
  • Cartilage and Subchondral Bone: Lesions can vary from cartilage-only damage (chondral) to full-thickness defects involving both cartilage and bone (osteochondral).
  • Ankle Osteochondral Lesions
    Signs & Symptoms

  • Deep ankle pain: Worsened by weight-bearing activities.
  • Swelling: Persistent or recurrent swelling around the ankle joint.
  • Joint stiffness: Limited range of motion, particularly in dorsiflexion.
  • Catching or locking: Sensation of the ankle "catching" or "locking" during movement.
  • Causes of Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

  • Trauma: The primary cause, often from ankle sprains or fractures.
  • Repetitive stress: Chronic microtrauma from high-impact activities.
  • Ischemia: Reduced blood supply leading to cartilage and bone damage.
  • Risk Factors for Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

  • High-impact sports: Athletes in sports like basketball, soccer, and running are at higher risk.
  • Previous ankle injury: A history of ankle sprains or fractures increases the likelihood of developing osteochondral lesions.
  • Age: More common in younger individuals due to higher physical activity levels.
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    Prevalence of Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

  • More prevalent in younger athletes: Particularly those involved in sports with high demands on the ankle joint.
  • Increasingly recognized in general population: As diagnostic methods like MRI become more widely used.
  • Assessment & Diagnosis of Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

  • Physical Examination: May reveal tenderness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
  • MRI: Gold standard for diagnosing osteochondral lesions, revealing both cartilage damage and bone involvement.
  • X-ray/CT: Useful for identifying fractures or subchondral bone injuries.
  • Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy for Ankle Osteochondral Lesions

  • Soft Tissue Massage: To alleviate pain and improve circulation.
  • Joint Mobilization: To restore range of motion and reduce stiffness.
  • Strengthening Exercises: To improve ankle stability and prevent recurrence.
  • Balance Training: To enhance proprioception and reduce the risk of future injury.
  • Activity Modification: Guidance on safe return to sports or other activities.
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    Ankle Osteochondral Lesions FAQs

    Treatment options range from non-surgical approaches, such as physical therapy and injections, to surgical interventions like arthroscopy, depending on the lesion's severity.

    Small, stable lesions may heal with conservative treatment, but larger or unstable lesions often require surgical intervention.

    Recovery time can vary from a few months to over a year, depending on the extent of the lesion and the type of surgery performed.

    Ankle Osteochondral Lesions References