Are you dealing with a clicking or popping sensation in your ankle joint? While it could be caused by a few different issues, one condition that can lead to this type of sensation is known as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Osteochondritis dissecans is a condition in which part of a bone fragment underneath a segment of cartilage ends up dying as a result of lack of blood flow. The bone and cartilage fragment can break loose, irritating the ankle joint when you move in certain directions.
OCD can worsen if left untreated, so talk with your foot and ankle specialist and begin considering your treatment options. Below, we explore some of the ways osteochondritis dissecans is typically managed.
Causes And Symptoms Of Osteochondritis Dissecans
As we noted above, OCD typically occurs when an area of bone can no longer get an adequate blood supply. This usually occurs following acute trauma to the area. Oftentimes osteochondritis dissecans develops in the wake of a severe ankle fracture, heavy trauma to the upper foot complex or due to a significant ankle sprain. Old age and heavier individuals are also at an increased risk for the condition as a result of natural degeneration and additional stress on the ankle complex.
Aside from a clicking or popping noise when manipulating your ankle in certain directions, some symptoms that may present if you’re dealing with OCD include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Inhibited gait
- Difficult bearing weight
- Tenderness
- Ankle weakness
If you’re dealing with a couple of these symptoms, it’s best to connect with a foot and ankle specialist who can set you up on the path to recovery.
Treating Osteochondritis Dissecans
As we mentioned above, failing to treat the condition can lead to additional problems, particular in the form of progressive arthritic degeneration. Treatment will depend on the root cause of your osteochondritis dissecans, but common treatments that are recommended in combination with one another include:
- Physical Therapy to establish strength and range of motion in the area.
- Anti-inflammatory medications to combat lingering inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections to resolve inflammation and make it easier for patients to pursue proactive interventions like physical therapy and exercise.
- Rest, followed by a gradual return to athletic activities.
If these treatments fail to provide relief, your foot and ankle specialist may recommend a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the affected bone fragment and clear away resulting debris that is causing discomfort in the ankle joint. this procedure typically has a high rate of success, but you won’t be able to jump right back into physical activities following the operation. Individual results will vary, but many patients can get back to normal activities within 6-8 weeks, and during the recovery period they will be pursuing physical therapy to reestablish strength and movement in the affected area.
