Osteochondritis is a lesion that usually causes pain and stiffness of the ankle joint and affects all age groups. Osteochondritis is caused by a twisting-type injury to the ankle.  This can lead to varying degrees of damage to the cartilage of the ankle joint.  Symptoms include swelling and ankle pain.

Immobilization of the foot and ankle for a period of time usually resolves the problem. Sometimes steroid injections and physical therapy are helpful as well.  In more severe cases, however, surgery may be prescribed. During the surgery, (typically an ankle arthroscopy), loose fragments of cartilage and bone are removed from the ankle joint and, in some cases, small drill holes are made in the defect to stimulate new blood vessels and help form scar tissue that will fill the defect.

If you are experiencing ankle joint pain, it is important to be seen by a Foot and Ankle Specialist for an exam and proper diagnosis/treatment plan.