In this article the statistical data available in the literature concerning anterior ankle impingement syndrome, a chronic painful condition due to friction of joint tissues and an alteration of joint biomechanics, are analyzed. The clinical diagnosis of anterior and lateral ankle impingement can be made by exclusion and with the help of imaging techniques. One article, in particular, is discussed which shows that magnetic resonance images provide additional information regarding the mechanics of chronic ankle impingement and are very useful for differentiating extra-articular causes responsible for the problem.