Your legs and feet have numerous structures in place to move your feet in various directions. Two tendons in each leg help with stability of the foot and your weight bearing ability. These are the peroneal tendons.

Peroneal tendons run along the lower leg bone, side by side. At the ankle they are located behind the lateral malleolus, which is the bony protrusion on the outside of the ankle. These tendons provide stability to the ankle and protection from sprains. One runs alongside the outer part of the foot and attaches to the little toe and the other runs along the bottom of the foot, attaching to the inside of the arch.

Conservative treatment of peroneal tendonitis is usually enough to remedy the condition and surgery may not be necessary if it is diagnosed early. An overused tendon responds well to rest. Significant tendon pain can be relieved by using a walker boot to immobilize the tendon. In some situations, an ankle brace is sufficient. Following the treatment protocol advised by your doctor is important for successful treatment of peroneal tendonitis.

Causes of Peroneal Tendonitis

When these tendons are overused, especially through repetitive ankle motion, they become susceptible to peroneal tendonitis. Runners often experience this condition. Other factors that contribute to peroneal tendonitis are:

• Improper training techniques
• Footwear that does not adequately support the foot
• Sudden increase in weight-bearing activities like walking, running and jumping
• High arches
• Imbalanced muscles in the lower limbs

This condition can also develop if you have sprained your ankle and not given it enough time to heal before resuming regular activities.

The damaged peroneal tendons develop scar tissue that thickens as time goes on. This process makes the condition worse, as the tendon becomes weaker and more vulnerable to tearing.

Symptoms of Peroneal Tendonitis

Peroneal tendonitis can have a sudden onset, or it can develop slowly over time. Both acute and chronic peroneal tendonitis have similar symptoms:

• There will be pain at the back of the ankle which will get worse during activities and when turning the foot in or out. The pain will respond to rest.
• The back of the ankle will feel warm to the touch and have swelling.
• The ankle will be unstable when bearing weight.

Generally, people who are training and have increased their workout routine or added a new exercise that affects the ankle may be more likely to develop this condition.

Pain in your ankle or foot should be examined by a doctor. An early diagnosis and treatment can mean the difference between a shorter recovery time or an injury that impairs your ability to walk. When you have foot or ankle pain, contact an expert in the field of foot and ankle surgery. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Stuart Mogul for excellent care and effective treatment.