peroneal tendon subluxation
Pronunciation: per-oh-NEE-al
Abnormal displacement of the peroneal tendons from their groove behind the lateral malleolus, often occurring in skiing and basketball.
Full Definition
Peroneal tendon subluxation occurs when one or both peroneal tendons (peroneus longus and brevis) abnormally displace from their normal position in the retrofibular groove behind the lateral malleolus. This injury typically results from forceful dorsiflexion combined with eversion of the ankle, commonly seen in skiing accidents, basketball, and soccer. The subluxation can be acute or chronic, with acute cases often involving a tear or detachment of the superior peroneal retinaculum. Patients report a snapping sensation over the lateral ankle, pain, and swelling. Chronic cases may develop tendon degeneration or tears. Clinical examination may reveal reproducible subluxation with resisted eversion and dorsiflexion. MRI can assess tendon integrity and retinacular damage. Treatment ranges from immobilization and rehabilitation in acute cases to surgical repair or reconstruction in chronic symptomatic cases.
Usage
Usage note: Specify acute vs. chronic and which tendon(s) affected for accurate documentation.
In Context
- "The skier sustained acute peroneal tendon subluxation with superior peroneal retinaculum rupture." — Injury report
- "MRI demonstrated chronic peroneal tendon subluxation with associated longitudinal split of the peroneus brevis." — Radiology interpretation