Question 1

What is Ankle Cartilage Injury?

Accepted Answer

The ankle is a joint that connects the bones of the lower leg to the bones of the foot, and allows for the upward (dorsiflexion), downward (plantar flexion), inward (pronation) and outward (supination) movement of the foot. In between these bones is the ankle cartilage, which serves as a shock absorber and cushion to reduce friction and facilitate smooth movements.

As with the tendons and ligaments that support the ankle joint, the cartilage is not exempted from damage that may arise from natural wear and tear and more commonly, injury. Depending on the severity of the damage, treatment ranges from rest to surgical ankle cartilage repair.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of ankle cartilage injury?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of an ankle cartilage injury vary and depend on the severity of the damage, but commonly include:

1. persistent joint pain that worsens when weight is placed on the joint or continues while resting
2. stiffness of the joint
3. weakness or tenderness in the joint
4. redness and swelling (usually developing a few hours after injury occurs)
5. limited movement of the foot
Regardless of whether the abovementioned symptoms are mild or not, the patient is recommended to see a specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, such as ankle cartilage repair to prevent further damage.

Question 3

What are the causes of ankle cartilage injury?

Accepted Answer

The most common cause of ankle cartilage injury is a heavy impact or direct trauma to the joint leading to cartilage tears, sprains, fractures and dislocations. This may occur as a result of engaging in heavy-impact sports, falling awkwardly on the joint and vehicular accidents. Natural wear and tear, repetitive foot motions, lack of movement and being overweight or obese also increase one’s risk of developing a cartilage injury.

Question 4

What is ankle cartilage repair?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the type and severity of the injury sustained, treatment will range from resting and pain medications to immobility (casting) and ankle cartilage repair procedures. One notable thing about the cartilage is that unlike other cells, the cartilage cannot completely regenerate once damaged. In cases where cartilage damage is severe, ankle cartilage repair is recommended to alleviate pain and restore mobility in the joint.

Question 5

What are the types of ankle cartilage repair procedures?

Accepted Answer

There are different techniques in ankle cartilage repair in Singapore, as follows: Arthroscopy, Open surgery, Cartilage transplantation, Cartilage formation, and Joint replacement.

Question 6

Who should undergo ankle cartilage repair?

Accepted Answer

Ankle cartilage repair in Singapore is recommended for patients with cartilage damage so severe that it significantly affects quality of life and day-to-day routines. It is also recommended in cases where more conservative treatments did not suffice.

Ankle Cartilage Repair in Singapore

Dr Seng Chusheng

WHAT IS ANKLE CARTILAGE INJURY

What are the symptoms of ankle cartilage injury?

What are the causes of ankle cartilage injury?

What is ankle cartilage repair?

What are the types of ankle cartilage repair procedures?

Who should undergo ankle cartilage repair?