What is wrong with my DD1's ankle?

[slightlyoversharing]

Please can any of you help I am at my wits end and was about to hijack another thread then thought I'd better start my own

She tripped 4 years ago going up a step on to a bus and twisted her ankle. Ever since, the ankle has been weak, she's gone over on it loads and it's painful, in the morning, in the evening and especially after exercise (and she is very sporty)

Eventually got referred to specialist hospital. Have had x-rays, ultrasounds, MRI done - all show normal.

Consultant admitted that she is in pain in the same two spots when she palpates her ankle, doesn't think she's faking it, but cannot suggest what is wrong and therefore treatment is a stab in the dark.

All she can suggest is more physio from their specialist physio which is an hour and half drive away and orthotics for her shoes to correct the inward roll on her gait.

Any ideas ladies and gents?

(The vet has suggested inflammation to her connective tissue which wouldn't show up on MRI as they wouldn't have a base line to work from?)

No idea but bumping for you.

If it is inflammation ibuprofen should help with pain, but you wouldn't want her to be taking it too often. Also a sports bandage might help to give the ankle more support.

Hope you manage to get some answers.

Strengthening exercises are probably the best way forward. You may not need to go to the physio that often though, once you have the exercise plan you should be able to carry on at home. Insoles to prevent overpronating (effectively arch supports of a kind) may well help too. Inflammation shows up pretty well on MRI, so I wouldn't rush into antiinflammatories unless also needed as painkillers.

Hope that helps.

Jen (Ortho foot&ankle doc with dodgy ankle of my own!)

Thank you