Prevalence of posterior ankle impingement syndrome in Egyptian swimmers

Abstract

Background: Posterior ankle impingement syndrome is a common cause of posterior ankle pain that is known to be associated with sports which require the athletes to repetitively plantar flex the ankle such as ballet dancers, gymnasts, football, swimming, cycling. PAIS can limit the athlete’s ability to perform at the optimal level. Objective: To determine the prevalence of posterior ankle impingement syndrome in Egyptian swimmers. Subjects & Methods: Three hundred and fifty male and female Athletes; their age ranging from 8 to 18 years old practicing swimming for at least one year. Diagnosis of PAIS was made based on history taking and assessment using hyper plantar flexion ankle special test. Results: The prevalence of PAIS in the selected sample was 24.9% with 95% CI of 20.62- 29.64%. Conclusion: Swimming practice must be with precautions to avoid PAIS injury. Routine extensor tendon stretching before swimming and protective ankle dorsiflexion taping are recommended to prevent posterior ankle impingement syndrome.