Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Sunday (By prior appointment)
Posterior Impingement Syndrome
What is posterior impingement syndrome?
Posterior impingement syndrome is a condition that causes pain due to compression of the structures at the back of the ankle joint. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for managing and relieving this condition.
How does posterior impingement syndrome happen?
Posterior impingement syndrome occurs when the structures between the bottom of the shin bone (tibia) and the ankle bone (talus) become compressed, particularly when the foot is placed in a plantarflexed position such as standing on tiptoes. This compression can lead to inflammation and swelling, and once the tissues are irritated, they are more likely to become repeatedly pinched whenever the foot is pointed. The condition is often seen in activities that involve repeated pointing of the toes, such as ballet and kicking sports. In some cases, it may also develop due to an enlarged bony prominence called an os trigonum or because of other bony anomalies within the ankle joint.
What are the symptoms of posterior impingement syndrome?
With posterior impingement syndrome, pain is typically felt at the back of the ankle when the foot is pointed downward. Some people may also notice swelling and tenderness around the back of the ankle, stiffness when moving the foot into a pointed position, or a feeling of pinching deep inside the joint. In more severe cases, the pain may interfere with activities such as dancing, kicking, or even walking on tiptoes.
- Pain at the back of the ankle when pointing the foot (plantarflexion)
- Swelling around the back of the ankle
- Tenderness when pressing on the back of the ankle
- Stiffness when moving the foot into a pointed position
- A deep pinching sensation in the ankle joint
- Pain that worsens with activities such as dancing, kicking, or walking on tiptoes
What should I do if I have posterior impingement syndrome?
If you suspect that you have posterior impingement syndrome, you should arrange a physiotherapy assessment as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and begin an appropriate treatment plan.
What shouldn’t I do if I have posterior impingement syndrome?
If you suspect that you have posterior impingement syndrome, you should avoid exercising or performing activities that cause pain, as these may aggravate the condition and delay your recovery.
Physiotherapy treatment for posterior impingement syndrome.
Physiotherapy plays a key role in the treatment of posterior impingement syndrome. Your physiotherapist will first diagnose the problem and assess how severe it is. In some cases, you may be referred for an X-ray to help confirm the diagnosis. Based on the findings, your physiotherapist will then create an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.
- Rest and activity modification to reduce stress on the ankle
- Ice therapy to help manage pain and inflammation
- Manual therapy to improve ankle mobility
- Strengthening and stretching exercises for the ankle and surrounding muscles
- Taping or bracing to support the ankle during activity
- Advice on footwear or orthotics to reduce impingement
- Referral for imaging (e.g., X-ray) or specialist consultation if required
Could there be any long-term effects from posterior impingement syndrome?
If posterior impingement syndrome is correctly diagnosed and appropriately treated, it does not usually cause any long-term problems. However, in some cases, surgery may be required to remove the underlying cause of the impingement.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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