Ankle meniscoid syndrome
When soft tissue is pinched in the joint
What is known as meniscoid syndrome is a rarer but painful cause of problems in the ankle joint. Despite the name it does not involve the meniscus in the knee, but describes a problem in the front of the ankle joint space.
The cause is a meniscoid – a fold of connective tissue that has formed out of the joint lining or out of scarred tissue. It lies in the area between the shin bone (tibia) and the talus. With certain movements – particularly when the foot is pulled up strongly (dorsiflexion) – the meniscoid can become pinched between the joint surfaces. This leads to stabbing pain, a feeling of catching, or restricted movement in the affected joint.
Causes of meniscoid syndrome
Meniscoid syndrome generally arises through mechanical irritation or repeated overloading of the ankle – particularly in people who load their ankle frequently or intensively.
- Repeatedly twisting the ankle (inversion injury)
- Earlier ligament injuries or operations
- Overloading through intensive sporting activity
- Chronic instability of the joint
- Chronic irritation
Symptoms
Meniscoid syndrome shows itself through load-dependent symptoms, which typically occur at the front of the ankle joint. The symptoms often develop gradually and are frequently not taken seriously at first – particularly by people active in sport, who are used to smaller joint problems.
Stabbing pain
Particularly with movements in which the foot is pulled up strongly (dorsiflexion).
Swelling
After physical activity – including longer walks or periods of standing – the joint can swell or feel "hot and thick".
Restricted movement
Above all when bending the foot upwards, but occasionally when pointing it down as well. Many patients report that the joint "cannot be moved all the way through".
How is meniscoid syndrome diagnosed?
Alongside the clinical examination, an MRI scan gives important clues to the meniscoid and to any accompanying changes. In unclear cases an arthroscopy may be needed, in which the meniscoid can be seen and treated directly
Treating meniscoid syndrome
As a first step, an attempt is frequently made to relieve the symptoms without an operation. The aim is to take load off the joint, reduce irritation and improve muscular stability. A meniscoid is tissue that mechanically gets in the way in the joint space. Non-surgical measures alone are therefore frequently not enough to remove the cause for good.
Treatment options
Non-surgical and surgical – we will find the right approach for you
Rest and a temporary break from sport
Activities that load the joint heavily – particularly with quick changes of direction or repeated dorsiflexion – should be avoided to begin with.
Physiotherapy
Targeted exercises strengthen the surrounding muscles, improve the way the joint moves and support the stability of the ankle. Manual techniques can also help to release tension.
Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication
Drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can relieve pain and contain inflammation.
Individually made insoles
Where there is a deformity or functional instability, an orthopaedic insole can take load off the joint specifically and improve the symptoms
Arthroscopic removal of the meniscoid tissue
The procedure is minimally invasive and allows targeted treatment that spares the joint, with a short recovery time.
Our foot specialists
Experienced consultants for meniscoid syndrome and foot surgery
