Condition guide
Posterior Ankle Impingement - Overview
Compression of the soft tissues at the back of the ankle during plantarflexion.
Symptoms
- Posterior ankle pain during pointed-toe activities
- Pain with running or jumping
- Tenderness behind the ankle joint
Causes & Risk Factors
- Repetitive plantarflexion (e.g., dancers, soccer players)
- Os trigonum (accessory bone)
- Previous ankle trauma
Diagnosis
- Posterior impingement test
- X-ray or MRI to detect bony or soft tissue causes
Effective Treatment Options
- Rest and activity modification
- Manual therapy and joint mobilizations
- Surgical excision in unresolved cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an os trigonum?
A small accessory bone at the back of the ankle that can cause impingement in some people.
Can I continue dancing with posterior ankle impingement?
With proper rehab and modifications, many return to dancing; severe cases may need surgery.
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