What Is Peroneal Tendonitis?
Peroneal tendonitis is a condition that affects the tendons in your foot and ankle. It can cause pain and swelling and impair function.
Peroneal tendon injuries can be felt on the outside of your foot and your lower leg when walking and running. It is also known as peroneal tendinopathy.
The orthopedic doctors at OrthoNeuro in Columbus, Ohio, are specially trained to help you understand your condition and the reasons why you are feeling symptoms.
They can offer an accurate diagnosis and specialized treatments to get you moving pain-free again.
This article will help you learn more about the symptoms and treatment of peroneal tendonitis and the expected recovery time before you can resume your everyday activity.
What Are the Peroneal Tendons?
You have two peroneal tendons in each foot. They are two tough bands of tissue that stabilize the ankle and the foot while weight-bearing.
They arise from the peroneal muscles on the outside of the lower leg. The two tendons are found behind your outer ankle bone.
Running parallel to each other, one peroneal tendon attaches from about the middle of the foot on the exterior side to the smallest toe. The other one is found beneath the foot and attaches to the inside of the foot’s arch.
The peroneal tendons protect the foot and ankle from sprains and other injuries.
What Causes Peroneal Tendonitis?
Peroneal tendonitis can occur because of the following reasons:
- Overuse – Those who perform repetitive ankle motion, such as long-distance running or interval training, can develop peroneal tendonitis. This is especially the case if the running surface is uneven.
- Tight calf muscles – Tension in the tendons can cause them to rub and get aggravated.
- Ankle injuries – Repetitive ankle injuries can weaken the area and put more tension on the tendons.
Who Is More Likely to Develop Peroneal Tendonitis?
Certain risk factors will increase your chances of developing peroneal tendonitis.