When an individual experiences ankle locking while walking, it can be debilitating and painful that can make daily activities or any physical activity difficult to perform. Ankle locking might be an indication of various conditions. These include ankle instability, ligament tears, bone spurs, arthritis and osteochondritis dissecans. If an individual experiences ankle locking while walking, a doctor should be consulted so that a proper diagnosis can be given.
Ankle arthritis
Ankle arthritis or degenerative joint disease can develop as a result of a traumatic injury to the ankle or normal wear and tear as the individual starts to age. Arthritis develops once the cartilage that cushions the joint becomes worn out.
Once the bones in the ankle starts to rub together, the individual can experience a variety of symptoms such as swelling, pain, diminished range of motion as well as ankle locking. Ankle arthritis is usually managed with footwear modifications, ankle brace, weight loss, anti-inflammatory medications as well as physical therapy and steroid injections. In case conservative treatment fails, surgery is a possible option. Surgery can be carried out in order to fuse the ankle joint that helps minimize pain.
Bone spurs
Bone spurs are small-sized, bony structures or osteophytes that can develop on the perimeters of the bones as well as where the ligaments and tendons connect to the bones.
The bone spurs can develop in the ankle and heal as well as result to ankle locking. Other symptoms of bone spurs include pain and diminished range of motion. Individuals go on for many years without experiencing ankle locking or pain due to a bone spur. The treatment for bone spurs is limited. In most cases, anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce the pain. In addition, surgery is the last option to eliminate the bone spurs.
Ankle ligament tears and instability
Constant ankle sprains or severe ankle sprains can take a toll on the ankle. Once the ankle is turned or twisted out of its usual range of motion, the individual ends up with a ligament tear.
Over time, this condition can become chronic and trigger ankle instability. Ligament tears and instability of the ankle can trigger swelling, pain, cracking, ankle locking and instability during walking and other weight-bearing activities. Take note that this condition can be managed with rest, immobilization, physical therapy, ankle bracing and even surgery as the last resort.
Osteochondritis dissecans
Osteochondritis dissecans is a condition that causes diminished flow of blood to the end part of the bone including the ankle bones. The flow of blood is diminished as a result of a loose cartilage at the end of the bone.
This condition is quite common right after sustaining an ankle injury. The indications of osteochondritis dissecans can include pain, swelling, ankle locking, tenderness, limited range of motion and instability in the joint.
The conservative measures are initially used when managing osteochondritis dissecans. The doctor will recommend rest including the use of crutches or avoiding high-impact activities. Physical therapy is also beneficial to increase the range of motion and strength. In case conservative measures do not work, surgery might be performed to remove the cartilage and bone fragments.