The ankle is a complex structure of muscles, tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues hold the ankle together. The talocrural joint, commonly referred to as the ankle joint, is capable of a variety of movements and carries the weight of the entire body. The ankle can be injured by acute trauma, sports, or wear and tear. Athletes and individuals 65 and older more frequently experience conditions affecting the ankle, which include fractures, sprains, tendonitis, arthritis, bursitis, and flatfoot.

OCD Lesions (Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions)

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions are lesions of cartilage and bone. Acute trauma like a severe ankle sprain or chronic malalignment or instability causes a loss of blood supply to the bones of the ankle, causing pieces of bone to break off. Symptoms vary on the severity of injury, but can include pain that worsens with activities, clicking and popping sounds, and swelling. It can be treated conservatively with activity modification, and immobilization. More severe injuries may need corticosteroid injection or surgery (if part of a bone has completely detached). Recovery from surgery normally lasts around eight weeks, with a cast.

Ligament Injuries (Ankle Sprains)