DefinitionAnkle exostosis is a build up of bone at a site of new or repeat injury to the ankle, and is usually caused by repeat trauma.
Parts involved- lower aspect of the tibia and the fibula
- any tissues close to the ankle exostosis such as blood vessels, nerves and the periosteum
signs & Symptoms- inability to push off with the foot from the ground
- inability to run and jump at speed
- minor ankle pain with movement
- there will be no tenderness or pain elicited upon palpation
- irregular bone shape and contours that starts small and gradually becomes more noticeable over time
Causes- repeated injury to the ankle and foot
- early onset of arthritic changes
- sports that require any sort of pushing off movements from the foot
Prevention- warm up before any physical activity
- start a strength and flexibility program designed for your sport
- after any injury to the ankle or foot allow enough time for the injury to properly heal
Ankle exostosis does not usually result in any form of disability if proper treatment is applied, such as rest, heat treatments, possible corticosteroid injections and most importantly protection from future injuries to the ankle.
If you feel that you are losing the ability to push off with the foot, you may have the starting symptoms of
ankle exostosis and you should consult your doctor. It is important with this condition to seek medical intervention as if left untreated it can result in disability of the foot and ankle over time.
My mother suffered from this for many years and it really affected her walking and the type of shoes she could wear.i
