Peroneal Subluxation Syndrome and What Can Cause Popping or Clicking Around the Ankle

Peroneal subluxation syndrome occurs when the peroneal tendons move out of the groove that they are supposed to slide in on the fibula. These tendons run on the posterior lateral aspect of the ankle and helped to evert the foot. There are a couple different reasons why peroneal subluxation can occur, but it can be painful and lead to tearing of the peroneal tendons if it is left untreated.

One of the reasons patients get peroneal subluxation syndrome is how concave or convex the posterior fibula is. If the posterior fibula is too convex, the peroneal tendons do not have an area to glided and stay in place, and they are more prone to pop out of place around the ankle.

Another reason people can get peroneal subluxation syndrome can be related to previous injuries. If the superior peroneal retinaculum is damaged, this can allow the tendons to pop out of place as well. We most commonly see this with severe inversion ankle sprains that damage the peroneal retinaculum.

If you are getting popping or clicking around the posterior lateral ankle, we do recommend having this evaluated. This problem often can be fixed by deepening the groove over the posterior fibula to give the peroneal tendons an area to glide in without subluxing. We also tightened the peroneal retinaculum at the same time to try and keep the tendons from subluxing in the future.

If you have peroneal subluxation syndrome and it is left untreated, we do see people develop peroneal tendon tears associated with the tendons chronically subluxing which causes damage to the tendons.

If you are suffering from any foot and ankle pain or trauma, call your expert Colorado Springs foot and ankle surgeons and podiatrists today at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado. Dr. Hinderland, Dr. Cameron, and Dr. Dominick are all expertly trained to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Author
Dr. Matthew Hinderland Board Certified Podiatrist and Foot and Ankle Surgeon

You Might Also Enjoy...

Can an Ankle Sprain Simply Heal with Rest?

While popular opinion states that sprained ankles can only be left to heal on their own, that can actually lead to complications and prolonged healing. We review why you should seek medical treatment for your sprained ankle here.

Do I Need Surgery for My Hammertoe?

If you have a hammertoe, you might be wondering if surgery is your only option to treat it. We explore all your treatment options for hammertoe here and review when surgery becomes necessary.

How Are Custom Orthotics Made?

If you suffer from chronic foot and ankle pain, you might need custom-made orthotics. Find out more about the process of making custom orthotics here.

Can My Ingrown Toenail Heal on Its Own?

If you struggle with ingrown toenails — a common foot condition — you might be wondering if they’ll go away all on their own, or if you always need to seek treatment for them. We review that and more here.

I Have High Arches. Now What?

If you have high arches, you’re at risk for developing other foot health issues. Read on to learn how to treat any potential complications of high arches and more about this foot condition.

What’s Behind Your Popping Ankles?

Ankle popping is common. But how do you know what’s causing it, and if it’s something you should be worried about? We answer those questions and more here.