What physical finding might indicate hypomobility in the case of an ankle injury?

What physical finding might indicate hypomobility in the case of an ankle injury?

• A. Limited range of motion in the knee
• B. Reduced flexibility in the ankle
• C. Hypomobility at the distal tib/fib joint
• D. Increased joint stability

Answer: (C)

In the context of assessing ankle injuries, reduced mobility can manifest as hypomobility, which is a restriction in joint movement. The distal tibiofibular joint is critical in the overall function of the ankle, as it provides stability and permits movement during the gait cycle. If there is hypomobility at the distal tib/fib joint, it can significantly affect the ankle's range of motion due to its role in allowing the fibula to glide smoothly as the talus moves during dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. This restriction can lead not only to limited movement at the ankle joint itself but also result in compensatory mechanisms in adjacent joints, which may lead to further issues. Identifying hypomobility at this specific joint suggests that there is an underlying issue with the soft tissue structures, ligaments, or joint surfaces that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms. This can directly guide treatment strategies focused on mobilization or stretching exercises to improve function. Other options do not directly indicate hypomobility at the ankle joint itself. Limited range of motion in the knee or reduced flexibility at the ankle may occur due to muscle tightness or other factors but don't specifically pinpoint joint hypomobility. Increased joint stability, while relevant

In the context of assessing ankle injuries, reduced mobility can manifest as hypomobility, which is a restriction in joint movement. The distal tibiofibular joint is critical in the overall function of the ankle, as it provides stability and permits movement during the gait cycle.

If there is hypomobility at the distal tib/fib joint, it can significantly affect the ankle's range of motion due to its role in allowing the fibula to glide smoothly as the talus moves during dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. This restriction can lead not only to limited movement at the ankle joint itself but also result in compensatory mechanisms in adjacent joints, which may lead to further issues.

Identifying hypomobility at this specific joint suggests that there is an underlying issue with the soft tissue structures, ligaments, or joint surfaces that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms. This can directly guide treatment strategies focused on mobilization or stretching exercises to improve function.

Other options do not directly indicate hypomobility at the ankle joint itself. Limited range of motion in the knee or reduced flexibility at the ankle may occur due to muscle tightness or other factors but don't specifically pinpoint joint hypomobility. Increased joint stability, while relevant