Dislocated Tibialis Posterior Tendon in a Classical Ballet Dancer

Abstract

Dislocated tibialis posterior tendon is a rare condition in the absence of trauma. We report a case of a 17-year-old classical ballet dancer who dislocated her tibialis posterior tendon while performing a relevé. She was unable to bear weight on that leg subsequently but she did have full active range of motion and her pain resolved quickly. She reported feeling a “flicking” at the ankle when the injury occurred. On examination it was possible to dislocate the tendon with the foot fully plantar flexed (pointed). Investigations are not diagnostic in this condition. Treatment consisted of surgical repair of the flexor retinaculum, 6 weeks non-weight-bearing, and progressive functional rehabilitation with attention to strengthening foot musculature and regaining ankle range of motion, particularly dorsiflexion (plié). The dancer returned to full ballet performance 5 months after injury.