Subtalar Dislocations in Basketball Players

In brief

A US Marine sustained a medial subtalar dislocation while playing basketball in mid-cut tennis shoes. Though such dislocations generally involve high-impact mechanisms, this case supports previous indications of a sports-related mechanism. Generally, conservative treatment involving closed reduction under general anesthesia is adequate, as it was with this patient. Some cases may require surgery. An MRI obtained 8 weeks postinjury revealed possible damage to the articular cartilage of the talus. Preventive strategies may include appropriate shoes, suspended wood floors, and conditioning.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

M. A. Boitano

Dr Boitano is assigned to the Naval Medical Clinic at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. She is the team physician for the US Naval Academy, Armed Forces, and Olympic boxing teams and a member of the American College of Sports Medicine.