Role of MRI in Assessment of Ligamentous & Cartilaginous Causes of Painful Ankle Joint

Abstract

njuries to the ankle occur with great frequency. The ankle is considered the most commonly injured, major weight-bearing joint in the body. However, the true incidence of such injuries is unknown, because a variety of clinicians treat ankle injuries and their definitions are often imprecise (Sharma et al., 2016). Most ankle injuries are straightforward ligamentous injuries. However, the clinical presentation of subtle ankle fractures can be similar to that of ankle sprains, and these fractures can be missed on initial examination. Appropriate imaging can minimize delays in treatment that may result in long-term disability and surgery (Zbyn et al., 2016). Abnormalities of the medial ligaments and posterior tibial tendon can occur because of acute injury or chronic instability or mal-alignment. Medial ankle injuries occur because of pronation or supination & external rotation injuries. Deltoid ligament injuries have also a significant impact on lateral ankle instability but can be overlooked in patients with lateral ligament injuries. Tarsal tunnel syndrome, accessory flexor muscles, and sub-talar coalition should be considered as well as ligament and tendon tears in differential diagnosis of