You may be unable to bend your ankle forward (dorsiflexion) due to various reasons, one of which could be ankle impingement.
Ankle Impingement and Limited Ankle Movement
According to available information, one potential cause for difficulty in bending your ankle forward is ankle impingement.
- What it is: Ankle impingement occurs when soft tissue or bone fragments get compressed or trapped in the ankle joint when you try to bend it.
- Causes: This can happen due to:
- An acute injury, like a sprain.
- Prolonged stress from repetitive activities. For example, athletes who frequently plantarflex their foot (e.g., ballet dancers) or dorsiflex (e.g., soccer players).
Therefore, if you are experiencing difficulty bending your ankle forward, consider the possibility of ankle impingement, especially if you have a history of ankle injuries or repetitive strain. Other potential causes could include tight calf muscles, arthritis, or other musculoskeletal issues. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment.