What is a Frozen Ankle?
Frozen ankle is a condition where the ankle joint becomes stiff, painful, and loses its normal range of motion. It’s medically referred to as adhesive capsulitis of the ankle. This happens when the tissues around the ankle joint become inflamed and thickened, causing restricted movement.
What Causes a Frozen Ankle?
Frozen ankle can develop for several reasons:
- After an injury such as a sprain or fracture
- Following ankle surgery
- Long periods of immobility or wearing a cast
- Arthritis or inflammation in the joint
- Sometimes, the cause is unknown
It is more common in people with certain conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms usually develop gradually and may include:
- Stiffness in the ankle
- Pain, especially with movement
- Swelling or tenderness
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Reduced ability to flex, extend, or rotate the ankle
How is Frozen Ankle Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made based on:
- Physical examination of ankle movement and pain
- Medical history including any recent injuries or surgeries
- Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to rule out other conditions like arthritis or bone damage
How is it Treated?
Treatment usually focuses on reducing pain and restoring mobility. Options include:
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections to reduce joint inflammation
- Use of braces or supports to stabilize the ankle
- Heat and cold therapy to relieve stiffness and pain
In severe or long-lasting cases, surgery may be considered to release the tight joint capsule.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery varies depending on the severity and cause. With proper treatment and rehabilitation:
- Mild cases may improve in a few weeks to months
- More advanced cases might take 6 months or longer
- Consistent physical therapy is key to full recovery
Can It Be Prevented?
While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:
- Staying active after an injury, as advised by your doctor
- Following rehabilitation plans carefully after surgery
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis
- Avoiding prolonged immobilization unless necessary