MRI results - can anyone help? Is this an OCD?

Hi all,


Following my other post regarding ongoing ankle problems and pain after a sprain last December, I have recently had an MRI scan and the key points of the findings are:

1. Focal chondropathy with subchondral microcystic changes to the posterior medial dome/posterior talar process

2. Small volume fluid concerning for mild tenosynovitis along the tibialis posterior and flexor hallucis longus tendon sheath

3. Mild to moderate subacute sprain of lateral ankle ligament complex.


Elsewhere in the report it says focal subchondral microcystic changes at the posterior medial and posterior aspect of the talar dome concerning for occult high-grade overlying chondral fissure.


Can anyone help with what this actually means please?

My physio has said there's nothing to be concerned about, just lots of sprained ligaments and tendons but is referring me to orthopaedics at the hospital.

I am concerned if there is cartilage damage that I am making it worse by continuing to walk lots and be as active as I can (without doing any high impact activities), as per the physios advice.

Thank you so much for any advice!

Basically the results of a grade two lateral ankle sprain which caused a boney injury to the surface if the main ankle bone (talus). What injury did you do? When was it? If it was acute then maybe a short period of time in a boot to stay off the boney surface while it heals could be useful. An ortho opinion on the scans would be appropriate in relation to that condral damage suffice to say it is very common in a hood sprain.

Thanks for the reply physiobob, really helpful.

I did it 9, nearly 10 months ago. Fell off a kerb, and rolled the right ankle pretty hard. Heard (and felt!!), a crack at the time. My husband heard it and he was walking a bit in front of me.

I am waiting for the appointment for the orthopaedic to review and advise further. Physio seems to think an arthroscopy may be in order to look further?

I would tend to agree. They might do a CT first or just go take a look considering it was that long ago.

I have just found out it is a 10 month waiting list until the first orthopaedic appointment!

I am really concerned that this will get worse if it is left too long - Should I be trying to get seen sooner?

I would look for a low cost MRI service. There are plenty of private ones where you can maybe get a scan for around £300-£350. Unfortunately the NHS is a longer wait but talk to your GP as they do have access direct into the booking so you can stay on them to try to get something sooner.