Talar dome lesions are usually caused by an injury, such as an ankle sprain. If the cartilage doesn't heal properly following the injury, it softens and begins to break off. Sometimes a broken piece of the damaged cartilage and the bone will float in the ankle.
Unless the injury is extensive, it may take months, a year, or even longer for symptoms to develop. The signs and symptoms of a talar dome lesion may include:
- Chronic pain deep in the ankle- typically worse when bearing weight on the foot (especially during sports) and less when resting.
- An occasional clicking or clacking feeling in the ankle when walking.
- A sensation of the ankle locking or giving out.
- Episodes of swelling of the ankle- occurring when bearing weight and subsiding when at rest.
Sometimes the podiatrist will inject the joint with an anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) to see if the pain goes away for a while, indicating that the pain is coming from inside the joint.
X-rays are taken, and often an MRI or other advanced imaging tests are ordered to further evaluate the lesion and extent of the injury.
Treatment depends on the severity of the talar dome lesion. If the lesion is stable (without loose pieces of cartilage or bone), one or more of the following non-surgical treatment options may be considered:
- Immobilization. Depending on the type of injury, the leg may be placed in a cast or cast boot to protect the talus. During this period of immobilization, nonweightbearing range-of-motion exercises may be recommended.
- Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy. Range-of-motion and strengthening exercises are beneficial once the lesion is adequately healed. Physical therapy may also include techniques to reduce pain and swelling.
- Ankle brace. Wearing an ankle brace may be help protect the patient from re-injury if the ankle is unstable.
Depending on the amount of damage to the cartilage in the ankle joint, arthritis may develop in the joint, resulting in chronic pain, swelling and limited joint motion. Treatment for these complications is best directed by a foot and ankle surgeon, and may include one or more of the following:
- Non-steroidal or steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
- Physical therapy.
- Bracing.
- Surgical intervention.
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Podiatrists in CT
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Ankle joint pain can be very harmful. We should do full care of the joint because we can’t walk if we have this problem. I think physical therapy is more effective and safe than surgery to get relief.
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