Ankle Impingement: Restricted Ankle Movement and Injury Awareness

Ankle impingement occurs when abnormal contact between bones or soft tissues in the ankle limits normal movement and causes pain. This often develops when extra bone growth or thickened tissue forms where the ankle bone meets the shin bone, interfering with smooth joint motion.

Ankle impingement can occur at the front (anterior) or back (posterior) of the ankle, depending on where the restriction develops. It commonly follows an ankle sprain that did not fully heal or repeated ankle injuries over time.

Types of Ankle Impingement

Anterior Ankle Impingement

Anterior impingement affects the front of the ankle and is often associated with previous sprains or repeated stress to the joint.

Common signs include:

• Ongoing pain at the front or side of the ankle

• Pain that does not resolve after an ankle sprain has healed

• A feeling of weakness or stiffness in the ankle

• Pain when the foot is pushed upward toward the shin (dorsiflexion)

Posterior Ankle Impingement

Posterior impingement affects the back of the ankle and is often seen in activities that require repeated pointing of the toes.

Common signs include:

• Pain at the back of the ankle
• Tenderness near the lower end of the fibula
• Pain when pointing the foot downward (plantar flexion)
• Discomfort when rising onto the toes or after activity

Why Ankle Impingement Develops

Ankle impingement occurs when tissues inside the joint become compressed between the ankle bones during movement. Contributing factors may include:

• Previous ankle sprains
• Repetitive ankle movements or overuse
• Scar tissue buildup after ligament injury
• Bony changes that develop over time

Posterior ankle impingement is more common in activities such as dance, while anterior impingement is frequently linked to repeated sprains or instability.

First Aid and Injury Awareness

From a first aid perspective, recognizing ankle impingement early can help prevent worsening symptoms or long-term mobility issues.

General first aid awareness includes:

• Reducing activities that increase ankle pain
• Allowing adequate rest following ankle injuries
• Using cold application for discomfort and swelling
• Seeking assessment if pain persists or movement remains limited

Persistent ankle pain, stiffness, or reduced range of motion after an injury should always be medically evaluated.

Medical Care and Recovery

Medical management depends on severity and underlying causes. Conservative approaches may include rest, temporary immobilization, or medications to manage inflammation. In cases where symptoms persist despite conservative care, further investigation or surgical options may be considered by a healthcare professional.

Why First Aid Training Matters

Ankle injuries are common in sports, workplaces, and daily life across Canada. First aid training helps individuals recognize joint injuries, apply appropriate early care, and understand when professional medical evaluation is necessary.

This awareness supports safer activity, faster response, and better long-term outcomes.

Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. To learn how to recognize and respond to joint injuries and other emergencies, consider enrolling in a first aid and CPR course with a Canadian training provider.