Fibular Translation Test

What is the "Fibular Translation Test" used for?

• Instability or injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis

How to perform the "Fibular Translation Test"?

• Place the patient in a side-lying position on the unaffected side.
• Stand behind the patient, facing the foot to be examined.
• Use one hand to firmly stabilize the distal tibia.
• With the other hand, grasp the fibular malleolus and translate it anteriorly and posteriorly.

What is the positive result?

A test is considered positive for a syndesmotic injury if:

• Pain is elicited during the anterior or posterior translation.
• Increased Laxity: There is significantly greater movement (displacement) of the fibula compared to the unaffected contralateral side.

Test Accuracy

• Sensitivity: 75%
• Specificity: 88%