The Unicorn’s Unicorn Injury: Kristaps Porzingis’s Torn Medial Retinaculum

During the 2024 NBA Finals, Boston Celtics star Kristaps Porzingis suffered a rare ankle injury that sidelined him for game 2. The official reason? A torn medial retinaculum with dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon.

While this diagnosis may sound complex, we at the Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland are here to break down this uncommon injury and its podiatric implications.

What is the Medial Retinaculum?

The medial retinaculum is a complex ligament structure on the inner part of the ankle. It functions as a strap, holding the tendons of muscles responsible for foot inversion in place. A tear in this ligament can disrupt this support system and lead to instability.

Symptoms of a Torn Medial Retinaculum

Media reports that Porzingis’s leg would swell up just from him walking. In addition to this sensitivity, a torn medial retinaculum can cause pain in the inner ankle, especially with weight-bearing activities, and a feeling of instability or weakness.

Treatment for a Torn Medial Retinaculum

The treatment for a torn medial retinaculum depends on the severity of the tear. In mild cases, treatment may involve rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy.

More severe tears, like the one experienced by Porzingis involving a tendon dislocation, may necessitate surgery to repair the ligament and tendon. Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but it typically takes several weeks to months to regain full function.

Preventing Medial Retinaculum Tears

While it’s hard to tear the inside of the ankle, it’s not impossible, especially for athletes. Certain measures can help reduce the risk of a medial retinaculum tear:

• Proper warm-up and cool-down exercises before and after games.
• Wearing appropriate footwear with good ankle support, especially during basketball.
• Maintaining strength and flexibility in the ankle and lower leg muscles.

Practicing at Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland in Solon, OH, Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, Dr. Jim Swienconek, Dr. Rachel Robinson, and Dr. Courtney Yoder are here to recommend the best injury prevention and treatment plans for your lifestyle. Contact us at (440) 903-1041 or reach us online to book an appointment. We treat patients in Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties. We proudly serve Solon, Aurora, Bedford, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, Macedonia, and Twinsburg, too!