What is the AAOS normative end feel for ankle dorsiflexion?

• A. Soft
• B. Firm
• C. Hard
• D. Empty

Answer: (B)

End feel is the quality of resistance you feel when a joint reaches the end of its passive range. For ankle dorsiflexion, the normal end feel is firm. This comes from the tension of the posterior ankle structures—the posterior capsule and ligaments—as well as the Achilles tendon and the surrounding musculature being stretched as the tibia moves over the talus. The resistance is a crisp, elastic stop rather than a hard bony block or a soft, squishy limit. A hard end feel would suggest bony contact at the joint, a soft end feel would indicate soft tissue bulk or edema taking up space, and an empty end feel would imply pain limiting the motion. So, the typical end feel for ankle dorsiflexion is firm.