Bony equinis of the ankle

Ivan.Drago

For the last couple of years (and for longer perhaps, just haven't noticed) I've had problems putting my foot into dorsiflexion. I don't have any other major issues in the major problem areas (hip mobility, thoracic mobility). I can't get into a proper bodyweight squat (with good form ie. feet pointed straight ahead or slightly turned and feet shoulder width apart) without falling backwards. Put a slight lift under my heel and I can get into a deep squat no problem - so I believe the problem is at my ankle.

I've done a lot of soft tissue work and stretching over the last two months to try to address the problem, but have noticed no noticeable improvements. I wouldn't be expecting an ass to grass squat after two months, but there's been no improvement at all.

Has anyone ever been screened for the condition "equinis"? How do you go about it - should I just get an x-ray and bring to a physio / physical therapist? I suspect I possibly have some sort of bony obstruction preventing normal dorsiflexion that won't be improved through stretching / mobility work.

calfmuscle

Go to a physio who is interested in strength and conditioning. They will assess your end feel and have a good idea as to what is causing your limited range if it is in fact limited. Then they should assess your actual squat and see if there are any adjustments that could be improved.