Ankle OCD

What is Talus Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Talus OCD is a condition affecting the talus, a bone in the ankle joint. It occurs when a small piece of bone and cartilage in the talus becomes weak, damaged, or even detached due to poor blood supply. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle.

What Causes It?

The exact cause isn't always clear, but possible factors include:

• Repeated ankle injuries or trauma (like sprains)
• High-impact sports
• Reduced blood supply to the bone
• Genetic predisposition
• Rheumatological disorders

Are There Different Types?

Yes, talus OCD can be classified based on the severity:

• Stable lesions: The bone is damaged but still in place.
• Unstable lesions: The bone and cartilage fragment are loose or have detached.

Symptoms

Children with talus OCD may experience:

• Persistent ankle pain
• Swelling in the joint
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• A feeling of the ankle "locking" or "giving way"

Possible Complications

If untreated, it can lead to:

• Chronic pain
• Ankle arthritis in the long run
• Joint instability

How Is It Diagnosed?

X-rays: First step to check bone damage

MRI or CT scans: Show detailed images of cartilage and soft tissues

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical:

• Rest and avoiding high-impact activities
• Immobilization with a brace or cast
• Physical therapy to strengthen the ankle
• Anti-inflammatory medications

Surgical (if severe or not healing with conservative treatment):

• Drilling (to stimulate healing)
• Removing loose fragments
• Cartilage repair or bone grafting in severe cases

Recovery

• Non-surgical cases: Several months with gradual return to activity
• After surgery: 3-6 months recovery, with physical therapy to restore strength and motion

Prevention Tips

• Proper warm-ups before sports
• Avoid overtraining and high-impact activities
• Wear supportive footwear
• Treat ankle injuries early

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can my child play sports again?
A: Yes, but only after full recovery. Returning too soon may cause re-injury.

Q: Will my child need surgery?
A: Not always. Many mild cases heal with rest and therapy, but more severe ones may require surgery.

Q: How long does healing take?
A: It depends on severity. Mild cases take a few months; surgical cases may take 6+ months.