Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is an Ankle Clonus?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

An ankle clonus is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary waves of muscle contractions in the ankle, occurring in response to stretching the muscles in and around the ankle. It is usually a sign of a neurological disorder, as the body normally prevents such contractions from occurring. People being screened for neurological problems can be tested for ankle clonus and patients who report this system may be evaluated for other signs of neurological problems. This will assist a doctor in arriving at a diagnosis.

A classic method used in testing for this condition involves flexing the foot upwards and then releasing it. In a healthy individual, the ankle will return to a normal position. In someone with ankle clonus, a series of five or more uncontrolled muscle contractions and relaxations will occur, causing the ankle to jerk repeatedly. This is a form of reflex tremor, an involuntary movement occurring in response to a reflex stimulus.

Involuntary muscle contractions in the ankle may be referred to as ankle clonus.
Involuntary muscle contractions in the ankle may be referred to as ankle clonus.

In people with ankle clonus, the muscle spasms can interfere with the ability to walk steadily. When the patient places weight on the affected foot, it can jerk and twitch, throwing the patient off balance and potentially causing a fall. Ankle clonus can be associated with limps and other abnormal gaits and can also be uncomfortable for the patient, as the spasms can be painful. Repeated sessions of spasms can cause lingering muscle soreness and pain in the patient.

Damage to the spinal cord may cause ankle clonus.
Damage to the spinal cord may cause ankle clonus.

This diagnostic sign rarely occurs alone. Other symptoms can be used to confirm that a patient has a neurological injury and to determine the level of the injury. Sometimes ankle clonus is associated with damage to the spinal cord, as may occur as a result of an accident. In other cases, it is caused by higher level damage in the brain itself. This condition can be common in people with cerebral palsy and can be seen in other people with damage in the areas of the brain that control muscle movement.

People with ankle clonus may have difficulty walking.
People with ankle clonus may have difficulty walking.

Treatments available for a patient with this reflex tremor vary, depending on the cause. Some patients find using canes, braces, and other assistive devices helpful for stability while they walk. Others may benefit from treatments designed to address the damage associated with the clonus, such as spinal surgery to address a pinched or damaged nerve. A neurologist is usually involved in care, and patients may work with other medical specialists like rehabilitation therapists as well.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

live2shop

A man I used to work with had this ailment, I think. I didn't know the name of it, but the symptoms are similar. He was upbeat and friendly. He walked with a cane, but every so often as he was walking, his ankle and foot would come off the floor and shake uncontrollably.

He told me once that he was in a car accident and injured his spine, and that's how his problem started. He said that there was nothing they could do for him. He was stuck with this condition and so he has just accepted it.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Involuntary muscle contractions in the ankle may be referred to as ankle clonus.
      By: Antonioguillem
      Involuntary muscle contractions in the ankle may be referred to as ankle clonus.
    • Damage to the spinal cord may cause ankle clonus.
      By: pankajstock123
      Damage to the spinal cord may cause ankle clonus.
    • People with ankle clonus may have difficulty walking.
      By: lzf
      People with ankle clonus may have difficulty walking.
    • A child suffering from ankle clonus may experience frequent falls.
      By: ivolodina
      A child suffering from ankle clonus may experience frequent falls.
    • Treatment for ankle clonus may include a brace to provide stability while walking.
      By: Kamil Ćwiklewski
      Treatment for ankle clonus may include a brace to provide stability while walking.