- Sometimes called osteochondritis dessicans or osteochondral fractures
- Usually have a history of injury, single or repeated.
- Diagnosis is one of suspicion, after ruling out other pathologies.
Ankle Osteochondral Lesion
General Information
Symptoms and signs
- Pain may be severe, diffuse or local and prolonged felt primarily at the lateral or medial aspect of the ankle joint
- Swelling, catching and/or instability of the ankle joint.
Primary Care management
Analgesia and NSAIDs as appropriate
Primary Care diagnostics
XR ankle AP standing and lateral views.
Who to refer
No improvement after 3 months (MRI or CT may be required).
How to refer
SCI Gateway/Orthopaedics/Foot & Ankle Service.
Referral will be vetted by an AHP and directed to the most appropriate healthcare professional.
Information to include when referring:
- Duration and any cause of symptoms
- Indicate site/spread of pain and if pain constant or intermittent, and/or waking at night
- Indicate ROM, effect on walking, running
- Include treatment to date (injections/ podiatry/ orthotics/ physiotherapy)
- XR results