Footballer’s Ankle

Footballer’s ankle occurs when the soft tissue (tendons and ligaments) in the ankle get pinched between the bones. Due to excessive kicking and bending and stretching of the foot, the ligaments can also thicken and cause bone growth at the front of the ankle causing pain. This is usually seen in people who have had multiple ankle sprains and suffer from chronic pain and instability.

Symptoms Of Footballer’s Ankle

Many people will describe a restricted range of motion and a pinching sensation across the front of the ankle.  This is mostly felt when trying to complete a lunging type movement.

Some people describe a ‘clicking’ sensation in the ankle during movement. It is also common for the ankle to feel weaker and unable to weight bear at times. In many cases a bony lump appears at the front of the ankle.

You may also have pain and tenderness when your ankle ligaments are pressed on as seen in a simple ankle sprain.

Treatment Of Footballer’s Ankle

Surgery is often required to remove the bony growth from the ankle if present and problematic.

Our Chartered Physiotherapists work with many Orthopaedic Surgeons in Dublin and are happy to refer patients where we feel surgery may be appropriate.

However, if the growth is not significantly large, then you may benefit from a programme of rehabilitative exercises which our expert Sports Physiotherapists can prescribe.

Our physiotherapists will devise a specific rehabilitation program which will target any issues of weakness, flexibility, altered postural control, balance and stiffness to help alleviate your symptoms.

Our Expertise

Our Sports Physiotherapists understand and love sport so you can be confident we will provide you with the appropriate diagnosis.

Depending on whether you require surgery or can be managed conservatively our Physiotherapist will tailor a treatment plan around your needs so your long term health is catered for.

Our therapist are experienced in post-operative management and will ensure that your treatment plan deals with all necessary structures and doesn’t get lost focussing solely on the ankle joint.