What are the peroneal retinacula?

The peroneal retinacula are two fibrous bands of deep fascia in the ankle that secure the tendons of the peroneal muscles. They consist of the superior peroneal retinaculum, located just posterior to the lateral malleolus, and the inferior peroneal retinaculum, found anteroinferior to it.

Where is the superior peroneal retinaculum located and what does it do?

It is a thick fibrous band located just posterior to the lateral malleolus. Its main functions are to secure the peroneus longus and brevis tendons in a single compartment, prevent bowstringing of these tendons during foot movements, and act as a pulley to aid in ankle stability.

How do the superior and inferior peroneal retinacula differ in their tendon compartments?

The superior retinaculum holds both peroneal tendons in a single compartment with a common synovial sheath. In contrast, the inferior retinaculum divides into two loops: a superior loop for the peroneus brevis tendon and an inferior loop for the peroneus longus tendon, each with a separate synovial sheath.

What is the clinical significance of the peroneal retinacula?

In athletes wearing tight shoes, friction can cause inflammation of the synovial sheath around the tendons in the superior retinaculum. Both retinacula help prevent tendon displacement and friction, so injuries or dysfunction can lead to ankle instability or pain.

What structures attach to the inferior peroneal retinaculum?

It attaches superiorly to the anterior part of the calcaneus, inferiorly to the lateral surface of the calcaneus, and has an intermediate attachment to the peroneal trochlea, which divides it into two loops for the tendons.

Why are the peroneal retinacula important for ankle function?

They are crucial for stabilizing the peroneal tendons as they curve around the ankle. By preventing bowstringing and displacement, they ensure smooth foot movements and reduce friction, which is essential for activities like walking and running.

Peroneal Retinacula – Superior & Inferior