Systematic Review on Ankle Arthroscopy versus Conservative Modalities in Management of Ankle Impingement Syndrome

Abstract

Ankle impingement syndromes are defined as pathologic conditions resulting in chronic, persistent painful limitation of full range of motion at the tibiotalar articulation secondary to soft tissue or osseous abnormalities. Ankle impingement is an increasingly recognized cause of symptoms in the general population as our understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis, and presentation continues to evolve. Recent advancements in diagnostic and treatment techniques aim to improve outcomes. Impingement syndromes in the ankle include a broad spectrum of pathology with varying etiologies, anatomic features, and presentations, these pathologies are generally grouped into anterior and posterior impingement syndromes for simplicity. Ankle impingement occurs more commonly in active people and athletes probably because repetitive microtrauma is an important mechanism. Regardless of the type of impingement, the treatment is usually similar. The initial treatment includes conservative measures such as physiotherapy and no