Peroneal Tendonitis Explained
Your foot has more than 100 tendons, ligaments and muscles, all of them necessary to provide stability and mobility for your body. When even one of these structures becomes injured or inflamed, you may experience difficulty going about your daily tasks or pursuing your favorite physical activities. Peroneal tendonitis is one foot and ankle condition that can make your life more difficult.
What is Peroneal Tendonitis?
The peroneal tendons run along the outside of your leg and loop under the bony part of the ankle. They then attach to muscles on both the outside of your foot and near the arch. When these tendons rub up against this bony part, known as the lateral malleolus, they can become irritated, swell and even tear. This condition can afflict anyone, but it more often strikes athletes, especially runners.
Symptoms of Peroneal Tendonitis?
If you develop pain behind your ankle that eases when you rest, you may have peroneal tendonitis. Other symptoms include swelling at the back of your ankle and pain when you turn your foot. At times, you may wobble when your ankle fails to support you properly. You may also notice that the skin in the afflicted area feels warm. Of course, for a proper diagnosis always visit your Physio.
Causes of Peroneal Tendonitis
As with many podiatric conditions, peroneal tendonitis is associated with repetitive ankle motion and stress. Runners, soccer players and dancers are at particular risk for this issue, which often appears after years of stress on the foot and ankle. Sometimes, the condition develops quickly after an injury or sudden strain on the tendons. For instance, an ankle sprain can often lead to peroneal tendonitis.
Treatment for Peroneal Tendonitis
If you experience these symptoms, you should visit your medical professional who will conduct mobility and possibly imaging tests to diagnose your problem. Once they have determined that peroneal tendonitis is the culprit, your doctor will likely prescribe rest until the pain and swelling dissipate. As with most foot and/or ankle issues, ice and heat may help soothe the tendons. You may also be asked to wear a supportive orthopedic boot or another device to keep your ankle immobile. Pain relievers help many sufferers, but in more severe cases, you may be prescribed cortisone injections. Surgery is rarely indicated.
Insoles Help for Peroneal Tendonitis
Be sure to wear supportive, activity-specific footwear, especially during high impact activities. A structured insole that keeps its shape (stay away from flimsy foams or squishy gels) should also become part of your everyday wardrobe, both in and out of activity, for support, performance and protection from injury.
What is Peroneal Tendonitis?
