Posterior ankle pain in dancers and equinus athletes is often caused by the extreme plantarflexion requirements of their activity. Differentiation between true posterior ankle pain and Achilles tendon pain is discussed. Signs and symptoms of posterior ankle pain are specific to the flexor hallicus tendon on the medial side or impingement when on the lateral side. Surgical exploration as well as conservative treatment is discussed.
Keywords: Achilles tendonitis; Flexor hallicus longus tendonitis; Plantar flexion sign; Posterior impingement; Posterolateral ankle pain; Posteromedial ankle pain.