Overview
An osteochondral lesion is an injury to the cartilage and underlying bone within the ankle joint, often after a sprain or fracture. It can cause deep, persistent ankle pain and catching.
Common Symptoms
- Deep ankle pain with activity
- Persistent aching after a sprain
- Catching or clicking
- Swelling
Causes & Risk Factors
- Prior ankle sprain or fracture
- Repetitive impact
- Impaired blood supply to a small area of bone
Treatment Options
- Rest and imaging to define the lesion
- Arthroscopic treatment
- Cartilage restoration for select lesions
Recovery & What to Expect
Arthroscopic treatment is minimally invasive; recovery is protected to allow healing, with return to activity over 2–4 months depending on the lesion.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual diagnosis and goals. Kevin O'Donnell, MD serves Coral Gables, Miami, Brickell, Pinecrest, Coconut Grove.