Osteochondritis
Restoring Strength and Stability to the Ankle Joint
Understanding Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a joint condition that occurs when the blood supply to a portion of bone and cartilage is disrupted, most often in the ankle. This lack of circulation can cause part of the bone to loosen or break away, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited motion. While rare, osteochondritis primarily affects young athletes who participate in sports that involve jumping, cutting, or repetitive impact on the ankle.
Causes
The condition often develops following trauma or repetitive stress to the ankle joint—especially to the talus bone. Over time, insufficient blood flow leads to tissue damage and, in some cases, detachment of bone or cartilage fragments.
Common causes include:
- Ankle injury or severe sprain that damages the talus bone
- Repetitive stress from sports like basketball, soccer, or gymnastics
- Vascular insufficiency, which limits blood flow to bone tissue
- Previous untreated ankle trauma or microfractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of osteochondritis can develop gradually or appear suddenly after an injury. Early detection is key to preventing long-term joint damage.
Typical signs include:
- Persistent ankle pain, especially during activity
- Swelling or stiffness after rest
- Limited range of motion
- Ankle instability or the feeling of the joint “giving way”
- Locking or catching if a bone fragment becomes loose
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the lesion and whether the bone fragment remains attached.
Conservative Care:
- Rest and avoidance of high-impact activity
- Immobilization with a brace or boot to protect the joint
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
- Physical therapy to restore mobility and strengthen the ankle
Surgical Treatment:
If conservative care fails after several months—or if a bone fragment detaches—surgery may be necessary to:
- Remove or reattach loose bone or cartilage fragments
- Perform microfracture or drilling to improve blood flow
- Stabilize and restore smooth cartilage surfaces within the joint
Prognosis
With early diagnosis and proper care, most patients recover well from osteochondritis. However, untreated cases may lead to chronic pain, stiffness, or arthritis in the ankle joint.
Don’t ignore persistent ankle pain. Schedule a consultation with our podiatric team today to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options for lasting relief.
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Ready to take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet? Contact us to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our foot and ankle services. Our dedicated podiatric team is here to provide personalized care and answer any questions you may have about your lower extremity concerns. Reach out today and let us help you achieve optimal foot health and mobility for an active lifestyle.