Novel Treatment of Apparent Posterior Ankle Impingement Syndrome Related to a StiedaProcess Utilizing the Mulligan Concept: An Exploration Case Study

Abstract

A 21-year-old female NCAA Division III soccer player presented with an insidious onset of posterior ankle pain. Lateral radiographs revealed a Stieda process, leading to a physician diagnosis of posterior ankle impingement (PAI). Mulligan Concept mobilizations with movement (MWM) were used to ameliorate patient complaints. The MWM glide was maintained during activity using a tape application. Return to play and patient improvement occurred dramatically faster while utilizing the MWM technique than other traditional methods used to treat this condition. This case report demonstrates a novel approach to treating Stieda process-related PAI that warrants further clinical inquiry.