Snapping Plantaris Tendon: A Rare Case in a Competitive Dancer

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• The plantaris tendon is a small, often absent, muscle in the posterior leg.
• Pathology includes rupture and association with Achilles tendinopathy.
• Snapping plantaris tendon syndrome is rare, with limited case reports.

Observation:

• A 15-year-old competitive dancer presented with pain and audible popping near the Achilles tendon during squatting.
• Physical examination confirmed visible and audible plantaris tendon snapping.
• Ultrasonography diagnosed the condition.

Findings:

• Nonsurgical treatment (physical therapy) failed to resolve symptoms.
• Open plantaris tenotomy was performed.
• The patient resumed dancing at 8 weeks post-surgery with excellent outcomes at 23 months.

Implications:

• This case highlights successful surgical management for snapping plantaris tendon syndrome in an athlete.
• Plantaris tenotomy can effectively treat this uncommon pathology, restoring function.
• Early diagnosis and intervention may improve outcomes for athletes with this condition.