Talar Dome Lesion

Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers

Podiatrists located in Clinton Township, MI & Sterling Heights, MI

A talar dome lesion is a complication that arises from injuries like ankle sprains that cause permanent damage to the cartilage that covers your talus (ankle bone). At Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers with multiple locations in Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, and Mount Clemens, Michigan, the expert podiatrists diagnose talar dome lesions and provide personalized treatment to reduce your pain and allow your ankle to heal. Call Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers or schedule an appointment online today.

Talar Dome Lesion Q&A

What is a talar dome lesion?

Your talus or ankle bone has a domed top, completely covered in cartilage. When that cartilage and the underlying bone are damaged, it’s called a talar dome lesion or an osteochondral defect. In most cases, talar dome lesions form after another ankle injury, like a sprain, when the cartilage doesn’t heal correctly. When the cartilage doesn’t heal correctly, it can soften and break off, and this in turn can cause debris to build up in your ankle joint, leading to further irritation. 

What are the symptoms of a talar dome lesion?

In its early stages, a talar dome lesion doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms. However, as your condition progresses, you might develop:

  • Chronic pain inside your ankle that’s worse when you put weight on it
  • Occasional clicking or catching sensations when walking
  • Feeling like your ankle locks or gives out
  • Occasional episodes of ankle swelling


If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers. The earlier you start treatment for a talar dome lesion, the better chance you have of avoiding pain and surgery.

Why are talar dome lesions so challenging to diagnose?

Talar dome lesions can be challenging to diagnose because it’s tricky to pinpoint the exact location of your pain. However, the expert podiatrists at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers provide thorough exams. They review your medical history and ask for details about any foot or ankle injuries while moving your foot around to check for pain, reduced range of motion, or clicking sounds. 

Your podiatrist might also inject an anesthetic into your ankle to see if it temporarily relieves your pain, indicating that your pain is coming from inside your ankle. Then, they might order X-rays or MRIs to evaluate the location and severity of your talar dome lesion.  

How are talar dome lesions treated?

If you catch your talar dome lesion in its early stages, your podiatrist uses nonsurgical treatments to heal your joint. For example, depending on your specific needs, your podiatrist might recommend:

  • Immobilization with a cast or boot
  • Anti-inflammatory medicine
  • Ankle brace
  • Physical therapy


If necessary, your podiatrist might suggest surgery to remove loose debris from your ankle joint to improve the environment for optimal healing. 

If you have ankle pain or instability, call Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers or make an appointment online today.