Slipping Tendons on the Outside of the Ankle: Can Kinesiology Tape Help?
Have you ever felt a snapping sensation on the outside of your ankle when walking, running, or moving your foot? In some cases, this may be caused by ankle tendons slipping out of their normal position.
This condition, known medically as peroneal tendon subluxation, can cause discomfort, a snapping sensation, and difficulty with certain activities. Understanding what causes the tendons to move out of place and how the ankle can be assessed and treated can help you make informed decisions about your recovery.
Kinesiology tape may be used as part of a physiotherapy treatment plan in some circumstances. However, it is important to understand its limitations and when further assessment may be needed.
What Are the Tendons on the Outside of Your Ankle?
The peroneal tendons, also called the fibular tendons, connect muscles in the outer part of your lower leg to bones in your foot. They run behind the bony prominence on the outside of your ankle and help support ankle movement, stability, and balance.
These tendons are held in place by a strong band of tissue called the retinaculum. This tissue helps keep the tendons in their normal position as your ankle moves.
Peroneal tendon subluxation happens when one or both of these tendons partially move out of their normal position, often producing a snapping or popping sensation behind the outside ankle bone. In some cases, the tendons may move completely out of the groove where they normally sit.
This problem can occur during sports and activities that involve sudden changes in direction, forceful ankle movements, or rapid foot movements. It may also develop following an ankle injury.
What Causes Ankle Tendons to Slip Out of Place?
One possible cause is an ankle injury that damages the tissue holding the tendons in position.
For example, a sudden twist or forceful ankle movement may injure the retinaculum. When this tissue is stretched or torn, the tendons may become less secure and move out of place during ankle movement.
This can happen during activities such as running, soccer, skiing, or other sports that involve rapid changes in direction or sudden ankle movements.
Sometimes, an ankle sprain occurs at the same time, making it difficult to identify the tendon problem right away. Ongoing snapping, discomfort, or a feeling that something is moving behind the outside ankle bone may warrant further assessment.
If the tendons repeatedly move out of position, symptoms may persist and interfere with everyday activities or a return to sport.
What Is Kinesiology Taping?
Kinesiology tape is a thin, flexible, elastic tape with an adhesive backing that is designed to move with the skin. Unlike rigid athletic tape, it allows a relatively wide range of movement.
A physiotherapist may use kinesiology tape as one component of a treatment plan to provide sensory feedback, offer a degree of external support, or help manage symptoms in certain musculoskeletal conditions.
However, the effects of kinesiology tape vary depending on the person and the condition being treated. Research does not establish that kinesiology tape can repair torn tissue, reliably reposition a tendon, or prevent a tendon from slipping out of place.
For this reason, taping is best considered a possible addition to an individualized treatment plan rather than a stand-alone solution.
What Are the Potential Benefits of Kinesiology Tape?
Depending on the condition and the individual, kinesiology tape may offer some short-term benefits, such as:
- Symptom management: It may help some people experience temporary relief from discomfort.
- Movement awareness: The sensation of the tape on the skin may provide additional feedback about movement.
- Support during activity: It may be used alongside other strategies to help manage symptoms while remaining active, when appropriate.
The benefits are not guaranteed, and kinesiology tape does not work the same way for everyone. It should not replace an appropriate assessment or treatment plan when an ankle tendon injury is suspected.
Can Kinesiology Tape Help With Tendons That Slip Out of Place?
Kinesiology tape may have a role in managing symptoms in some ankle conditions, but it should not be relied on to hold a slipping tendon in place or repair the tissue that supports it.
When a peroneal tendon moves out of its normal position, the appropriate treatment depends on the nature and severity of the injury, the stability of the tendon, and the person’s symptoms and activity goals.
A physiotherapist can assess ankle movement, strength, function, and symptoms to help determine the next steps. Depending on the findings, additional medical assessment or imaging may be needed to clarify the injury.
Treatment may involve activity modification, rehabilitation exercises, and other forms of support. Some injuries require assessment by a physician or specialist to determine whether additional treatment is appropriate.
Kinesiology taping may be considered as an adjunct when appropriate, but it should not delay assessment of a tendon that repeatedly snaps or moves out of place.
When Should You Seek an Assessment?
Consider seeking an assessment from a qualified health professional if you experience:
- Repeated snapping or popping behind the outside ankle bone.
- Pain or swelling following an ankle injury.
- A sensation that a tendon is moving or slipping during ankle movement.
- Difficulty walking, exercising, or returning to sport because of ankle symptoms.
Seek prompt medical assessment if you have a significant injury, cannot bear weight, experience severe or worsening pain, or notice substantial swelling or deformity.
Supporting Your Ankle Recovery
Ankle injuries can have different causes, and similar symptoms may require different approaches to treatment. Identifying the source of your symptoms is an important step toward choosing appropriate care.
At InHome Physiotherapy, our physiotherapy team can help assess movement and function, discuss your rehabilitation options, and develop a treatment plan suited to your needs and goals.
If you are experiencing recurring ankle snapping or suspect that a tendon may be slipping out of place, an individualized assessment can help you understand your options and determine the next steps.
Editorial & Medical Disclaimer
This article has been prepared and reviewed by qualified healthcare professionals affiliated with InHome Physical Therapy, including licensed physiotherapists and/or certified kinesiologists, where appropriate. Our clinicians are thoroughly vetted and maintain the licensing, certifications, insurance, and professional standing required to practice within their respective provinces.
The information provided is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, a diagnosis, or a substitute for an individualized assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. We encourage readers to make informed healthcare decisions based on their own circumstances.
If you have questions about your condition or our services, we welcome you to contact InHome Physical Therapy. General inquiries are always free of charge, and all fees associated with assessments or treatment will be discussed before any services are provided.
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