Ankle Cartilage Injury/OCD Treatment In San Antonio
What is Ankle OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans)?
Ankle OCD, or Osteochondritis Dissecans, is a condition that occurs when the bone underneath the cartilage in the joint dies due to a lack of blood flow. This can cause the cartilage to break off, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle. OCD can occur as a result of trauma, overuse, or as a genetic predisposition, especially in athletes who put significant strain on their joints.
Ankle OCD is common in individuals involved in high-impact sports, but it can also affect anyone. If left untreated, it can lead to arthritis and permanent damage to the joint.
Symptoms of Ankle Cartilage Injury & OCD
If you are dealing with an ankle cartilage injury or OCD in the ankle, you may experience some of the following symptoms:
Persistent ankle pain, especially when weight-bearing
Swelling and tenderness around the ankle joint
A feeling of instability or weakness in the ankle
Limited range of motion, making it difficult to bend or rotate the ankle
A sensation of something "catching" or "locking" in the joint
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a sports medicine specialist as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the joint.
Causes of Ankle Cartilage Injury & OCD
Ankle cartilage injuries and OCD can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Trauma or injury
A fall, twist, or sprain can lead to cartilage damage or cause an OCD lesion to form.
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Repetitive stress
Overuse of the ankle joint in sports like basketball, soccer, or running can result in cartilage wear and tear, leading to OCD.
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Genetics
In some cases, individuals may be predisposed to developing OCD due to inherited joint conditions.
Treatment Options for Ankle OCD and Cartilage Injury
The treatment for Ankle OCD and cartilage injury will depend on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the patient. Treatment options may include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
Physical Therapy: A personalized rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles around the ankle joint, improve flexibility, and restore function.
Bracing: Special braces may be used to stabilize the ankle and reduce strain on the affected cartilage.
Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Surgical Treatments:
If the injury or lesion is severe, surgery may be required to repair or replace damaged cartilage. Some common procedures include:
Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions and a camera to repair damaged cartilage or remove debris from the joint.
Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation: This procedure involves transplanting healthy cartilage from another part of the body to repair the damaged area.
Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation: In cases of more severe damage, a donor graft may be used to replace damaged cartilage.
Ankle Cartilage Repair & Recovery
After treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical, recovery will focus on restoring strength and function to the ankle. Dr. Rush provides personalized ankle cartilage repair programs to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include:
Physical Therapy: To regain range of motion and strength
Gradual Return to Activity: To prevent reinjury, your return to sports or activity will be carefully monitored and planned
Ongoing Monitoring: Follow-up visits will track progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
FAQs about Ankle OCD and Cartilage Injury
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Ankle OCD, or Osteochondritis Dissecans, is a condition where the bone beneath the ankle cartilage loses blood flow, causing the cartilage and bone to potentially break away from the joint surface. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and even joint instability if not treated.
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Dr. Rush will typically perform a physical exam to assess the joint’s stability, range of motion, and tenderness. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans are often used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury.
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High-impact athletes and individuals involved in sports like basketball, soccer, and running are at a higher risk. However, ankle OCD and cartilage injuries can also occur due to genetic factors, overuse, or repetitive strain on the ankle joint.
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Surgery may be recommended if the cartilage damage is extensive or if non-surgical treatments have not provided relief. Surgical options like arthroscopy, osteochondral autograft transplantation, or allograft procedures may be used to repair or replace damaged cartilage.
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Yes, untreated ankle cartilage injuries can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, and decreased mobility in the ankle joint over time. Early treatment is crucial to avoid complications and to promote healing, helping to maintain a high quality of life and athletic performance. Contact our team today.
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Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment. Generally, physical therapy is a key part of rehabilitation, aiming to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Dr. Rush will monitor your progress and guide you on when to safely return to activities.
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Dr. Rush will typically perform a physical exam to assess the joint’s stability, range of motion, and tenderness. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans are often used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury.
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Preventative measures include proper warm-ups, strength training, flexibility exercises, and using appropriate footwear during activities. Avoiding overuse and repetitive stress on the ankle can also reduce the risk of reinjury.
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Avoid high-impact activities like running, jumping, and intense sports until Dr. Rush advises that it’s safe to resume. These activities can put strain on the injured cartilage and potentially worsen the condition. Instead, focus on low-impact exercises recommended by your physician or physical therapist to maintain strength and mobility.
Meet Your Ankle OCD Expert, Dr. Rush
Dr. Jeremy K. Rush, MD, FAAP, is San Antonio's only orthopedic surgeon who is Dual-Fellowship Trained in pediatric orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. He specializes in arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle, as well as the treatment of fractures and other injuries in young athletes.
