Ankle Problems

The ankle is a complex joint that bears the full weight of the body during standing, walking, and physical activity. Ankle problems are among the most common musculoskeletal complaints and encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and joint lining. Accurate diagnosis is essential as many ankle conditions share overlapping symptoms.

Common Ankle Conditions

Ankle Ligament Sprains and Instability
Ankle sprains — typically involving the lateral ligament complex — are among the most frequent injuries in sport and daily life. While most sprains heal with conservative management, repeated sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability, where the ankle gives way repeatedly and functional stability is compromised.

Ankle Impingement
Anterior ankle impingement results in pain and restricted dorsiflexion due to bony spurs or soft tissue catching at the front of the ankle joint. Posterior impingement causes pain behind the ankle, often in dancers and footballers. Both can be effectively addressed arthroscopically.

Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus (OLT)
Damage to the cartilage and underlying bone of the talus within the ankle joint, often resulting from a sprain or repeated microtrauma. These lesions can cause persistent pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms and may require surgical management.

Peroneal Tendon Problems
Peroneal tendinopathy, tears, or subluxation (the tendons snapping out of their groove behind the ankle) can cause lateral ankle pain and instability.

Ankle Arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis following ankle fracture or recurrent injury is more common than primary osteoarthritis of the ankle. It causes progressive pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces.

Ankle Fractures
Fractures of the malleoli (bony prominences on either side of the ankle) can range from stable, undisplaced fractures manageable in a boot or cast, to complex fractures requiring surgical fixation.

Symptoms

• Pain on weight-bearing or specific movements
• Swelling and bruising around the ankle
• Stiffness and limited range of motion
• A feeling of giving way or instability
• Clicking, catching, or locking
• Tenderness over specific structures

Treatment Options

Management is tailored to the specific diagnosis. Many ankle conditions respond to non-surgical treatment including physiotherapy, bracing, activity modification, and injections. Surgical options — often performed arthroscopically — are available for conditions such as impingement, osteochondral lesions, instability repair, and ankle arthritis management.

Why Choose Dr. Raja Nadar for Ankle Problems?

Dr. Raja Nadar has fellowship training in Foot and Ankle surgery with specific exposure to ankle arthroscopy and the management of a wide range of ankle conditions. He provides thorough assessment and individualised treatment plans for patients with ankle pain and dysfunction.