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