A complex fracture of the talus following a rugby union line-out

SummaryFractures of the talus are frequently difficult to treat. The vulnerable blood supply and abundant articular surfaces may lead to long-term problems with avascular necrosis and osteoarthritis. A case of a complex injury to the talus occurring in a rugby union player during a line-out is presented. The laws relating to line-out play disallow “lifting” and “levering” in the line out, but in reality allow “supporting” of the jumper on his shorts, once he has jumped. A further law insists on “lowering” of the supported jumper to the ground as soon as the ball has been won. This unusual injury to the talus clearly demonstrates the potential dangers of the line-out and the necessity that the laws of the game must be strictly adhered to, in order to ensure the safety of the line-out jumper.