What is it?
Posterior ankle impingement is pain at the back of the ankle when the toes are pointed. It is common in dancers and footballers and is often linked to an extra small bone called an os trigonum.
What causes it?
- Repeatedly pointing the foot, as in ballet or kicking.
- An os trigonum or an enlarged bony prominence.
- An ankle injury.
Common symptoms
- Pain at the back of the ankle when pointing the toes.
- Tenderness and swelling.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is by examination, with X-rays and an MRI scan.
Things you can do now
- Reduce pointing the foot, as in dance, kicking or downhill running
- Look at technique with a coach or teacher
- Keep fit with low-impact exercise
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include changes to activity or technique, physiotherapy, a guided steroid injection and keyhole surgery to remove the extra bone.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Pain at the back of the ankle when pointing the foot persists
- It is limiting your dance or sport
- Physiotherapy has not helped
What to expect
Many people improve with activity changes, physiotherapy or a guided injection. Keyhole removal of the extra bone is very effective when needed.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about posterior impingement (os trigonum) in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with posterior impingement (os trigonum) at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.