Popping Peroneal Tendon Syndrome in Children: Understanding the Condition

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we often see young patients who experience unusual ankle symptoms. One such case involved an active 11-year-old girl who came in with a very specific complaint:

> “It feels like a bone is popping behind my ankle.”

This is a classic description of *popping peroneal tendon syndrome* (also called peroneal tendon subluxation). Let’s break down what this means, why it happens, and how it can be treated.

What Are the Peroneal Tendons?

The peroneal tendons are two important tendons located on the outside of the ankle:

* Peroneus brevis tendon – attaches to the base of the 5th metatarsal (outer edge of the foot).

* Peroneus longus tendon – runs under the foot and attaches near the arch.

Normally, these tendons glide smoothly behind the fibula (the small bone on the outside of the ankle) inside a protective groove. A strong ligament called the peroneal retinaculum helps hold them in place.

What Causes the “Popping” Sensation?

When a patient describes a “popping” or “snapping” behind the ankle, it usually means the tendon is slipping out of its groove. Instead of gliding smoothly, the tendon jumps forward over the bone.

This can happen for a few reasons:

1. Shallow fibular groove – Some children are born with a groove that is too shallow to hold the tendon securely.

2. Weak or loose retinaculum – If the ligament that stabilizes the tendon is weak, the tendon can dislocate.

3. Tendon tear (less common in kids) – A split or tear in the tendon may also contribute to instability.

How Do We Diagnose It?

A careful physical exam is often the first step. During movement tests, such as flexing and turning the foot outward (a peroneal stress test), the tendon may visibly or audibly “pop” out of place.

An MRI scan may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and check for:

* The depth of the fibular groove

* The strength of the peroneal retinaculum

* Any tendon tears or damage

Treatment Options

The best treatment depends on the underlying cause:

* Shallow groove → A surgical procedure may be performed to deepen the groove and prevent the tendon from slipping forward.

* Weak retinaculum → The ligament can be repaired or reinforced to hold the tendon in place.

* Tendon tear → If a tear is present, surgical repair may be needed.

When to See a Podiatrist

If your child complains of a popping or snapping sensation around the ankle, especially if it happens on both sides, it’s important to have it evaluated. While not always painful at first, untreated tendon instability can lead to:

* Chronic ankle pain

* Swelling

* Tendon tears over time

At Family Foot & Leg Center, our team uses advanced imaging and specialized surgical techniques when needed to restore tendon stability and get kids back to their activities safely.

Take the Next Step Toward Healthy Ankles

If your child is experiencing ankle popping or pain, schedule a consultation today.

📞 Call 239-430-3668 (FOOT) or visit https://www.naplespodiatrist.com to request an appointment with our expert team.

Same-Day Appointments: Why Speed Matters in Wound Care

When it comes to wound care, time isn’t just important—it’s critical. Every day that a chronic or complex wound goes untreated increases the risk of infection, tissue damage, hospitalization, or even amputation. As a podiatrist and wound care specialist, I’ve seen firsthand how fast action can change the outcome for patients. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for wound care: because delaying treatment is never worth the risk.

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Why Delays Are Dangerous

Many patients hope a wound will heal on its own. Unfortunately, foot and ankle wounds—especially in people with diabetes, vascular disease, or neuropathy—rarely improve without professional care. Waiting even a few extra days can allow infection to spread or tissue to break down further. In severe cases, a small wound can quickly escalate to a limb-threatening condition.

Complications that can result from delayed treatment include:

• Infection spreading into the bone (osteomyelitis)

• Gangrene that may lead to amputation

• Sepsis, a life-threatening systemic infection

• Chronic pain and mobility loss

The bottom line? Time is tissue. The sooner a wound is addressed, the better the chances of saving the affected area—and in many cases, preserving overall health.

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The Benefits of Same-Day Wound Care

1. Infection Prevention
Early cleaning, debridement, and protective dressings can dramatically reduce infection risk. Quick intervention creates a cleaner wound bed, which is essential for healing.

2. Faster Healing
The sooner advanced wound therapies are started, the greater the likelihood of full recovery. Treatments such as advanced dressings, biologic grafts, and negative pressure wound therapy work best when applied early.

3. Pain Reduction
Immediate attention often means less swelling, reduced pressure, and improved mobility. Patients frequently report decreased discomfort after even the first treatment.

4. Avoiding Hospitalization
By treating wounds aggressively at the clinic level, we can prevent the need for hospital admissions, which are costly, stressful, and sometimes risky.

5. Peace of Mind
Knowing that a specialist has evaluated your wound right away provides reassurance and a clear treatment plan, reducing anxiety for both patients and families.

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Advanced Wound Care Close to Home

At Naples Podiatrist, we use the latest technology—advanced dressings, bioengineered skin grafts, vascular evaluations, and more—to treat wounds effectively. Our podiatry team is skilled in recognizing early warning signs that others may miss, which can make all the difference in outcomes.

Our same-day scheduling means if you notice a wound that isn’t healing—or if you have redness, swelling, drainage, or odor—you can call and be seen immediately. We believe in removing barriers to care, because waiting for weeks to see a specialist isn’t an option when your health is at stake.

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When to Seek Same-Day Wound Care

Call us immediately if you notice:

• A wound that hasn’t improved in 1–2 weeks

• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or odor)

• Increasing pain around a wound

• Changes in skin color near the wound (black, blue, or pale skin)

• Numbness or tingling in the foot or ankle

These signs often indicate a worsening wound that requires urgent podiatric evaluation.

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Don’t Wait—Your Health Depends On It

If you or a loved one is dealing with a stubborn foot or ankle wound, remember: every day matters.

Same-day appointments could mean the difference between saving a foot—or losing it.

Call (239) 430-3668 today or visit woundhealingexperts.com to schedule your same-day appointment and take the first step toward healing.

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Dr. Kevin Lam is a board-certified podiatrist and wound care specialist dedicated to advanced treatments for diabetic foot ulcers, vascular wounds, and complex podiatric conditions in Southwest Florida.

Why Seeing a Podiatrist Regularly Can Prevent Limb Loss

For people living with diabetes, circulatory issues, or chronic wounds, foot health isn’t just about comfort—it’s about saving limbs and lives. Every year, thousands of preventable amputations occur in the U.S. because of untreated foot wounds and infections. The good news? Regular visits to a podiatrist dramatically reduce this risk.

The Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Foot Problems

Many serious foot complications start small. A blister, callus, or tiny cut can quickly turn into a serious wound if left untreated, especially in people with:

* Diabetes (which can impair circulation and nerve function)

* Peripheral vascular disease

* Neuropathy (nerve damage leading to reduced sensation)

Because these conditions often reduce the ability to feel pain, patients may not notice a wound until it’s already infected or advanced.

How Podiatrists Help Prevent Limb Loss

A podiatrist isn’t just a “foot doctor”—they are a critical part of your healthcare team when it comes to preventing complications that can lead to amputation. Here’s how they help:

1. Early Detection of Wounds and Infections

   Podiatrists are trained to spot even the smallest changes in your skin, nails, or circulation that could develop into serious problems.

2. Specialized Wound Care

   If a wound is present, podiatrists can provide advanced treatments such as debridement (removing dead tissue), grafting, or advanced wound dressings to promote healing.

3. Pressure Offloading

   By recommending special shoes, orthotics, or protective devices, podiatrists reduce pressure on vulnerable areas, allowing wounds to heal and preventing new ones from forming.

4. Nail and Skin Care

   Routine trimming of nails and removal of corns or calluses lowers the risk of cuts, skin breakdown, or infections.

5. Coordination of Care

   Podiatrists often work with vascular surgeons, endocrinologists, and wound care specialists to provide a comprehensive treatment plan—vital for patients at high risk.

The Cost of Skipping Check-Ups

Research shows that regular podiatry visits can reduce amputation risk by up to 85% in high-risk diabetic patients. Skipping check-ups may mean missing the window where a small wound could have been treated before it turned life-threatening.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should see a podiatrist at least once a year if you have diabetes, and more often if you’ve had foot wounds before. Seek immediate care if you notice:

* Any open sore, blister, or ulcer

* Redness, swelling, or drainage from a wound

* Thickened calluses or ingrown toenails

* Changes in skin color or temperature in your feet

Protecting Your Feet, Preserving Your Future

Regular podiatry visits are one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent limb loss. By catching problems early and managing them appropriately, you greatly increase your chances of living a full, active life—without the devastating consequences of amputation.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

At Advanced Wound Healing Institute, our team provides advanced podiatric and wound care to help prevent infections and limb loss. If you have diabetes, circulation problems, or a history of foot wounds, early treatment matters.

With multiple locations across Southwest Florida—serving Marco Island, Naples, Estero, Fort Myers, Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, and Sarasota—help is closer than you think.

🏥 Specializing in advanced treatments for non-healing and complex wounds to promote faster recovery and better outcomes.

Part of Family Foot and Leg Center, P.A.

📞 Call (239) 430-3668 or Request Your Appointment Online