Peroneal Tendinopathy: Understanding Causes & Treatment

Peroneal Tendinopathy: Symptoms, Causes, and Possible Treatments

Peroneal tendinopathy, also known as peroneal tendonitis, is an overuse injury on the foot that affects the muscles and tendons located in the lower leg and ankle. It can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with activities such as walking or running. With proper treatment and management, it is possible to reduce the symptoms of peroneal tendinopathy. In this article we will discuss some of the symptoms we should look out for, what causes this condition, and possible treatments.

Types Of Peroneal Tendinopathy

The two types of peroneal tendinopathy are:

Acute

An acute injury, such as an ankle sprain, or overuse from repetitive activities like running or jumping are the usual causes of acute peroneal tendinopathy. This type of tendinopathy can also be caused by dancing, gymnastics, or soccer, which are all very active sports. A clear sign of an acute peroneal tendinopathy is the sudden onset of symptoms like pain and discomfort on the outside of the foot and ankle. The affected area may also exhibit signs of swelling, tenderness, and warmth.

Chronic

The other type of tendonitis, chronic peroneal tendinopathy, can come on slowly over time, and its symptoms are sometimes mistaken for those of an ankle sprain. This condition is often caused by overuse from standing for long periods of time, bad shoes, or muscle imbalances. Chronic peroneal tendinopathy can cause pain and stiffness that lasts for a long time, less movement in the ankle, and a feeling of weakness when walking or running.

Symptoms

Symptoms of peroneal tendinopathy include:

  • Pain on the outside of the ankle, which can range from mild to severe
  • Swelling and tenderness in the area around the outer side of the ankle joint or around 5th metatarsal base
  • Weakness or instability when walking or running
  • Reduced ankle motion due to pain and stiffness

Causes

The most common cause of peroneal tendinopathy is overuse or trauma to the tendon. This can be caused by activities such as running, jumping, and other sports-related activities that require repeated lower leg motions. Chronic peroneal tendinopathy typically occurs with wear and tear over time due to the natural aging process. Other possible causes of the condition include direct trauma to the area, improper footwear, muscle imbalances in the lower leg and ankle region, anatomical abnormalities such as flat feet or high arches, and certain medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.

Risk Factors

Several factors can extend your risk of developing peroneal tendinopathy, including:

  • Prolonged standing or walking
  • Overuse from activities such as running, jumping, and sports-related activities
  • Improper footwear or muscle imbalances in the lower leg and ankle region
  • Obesity, which can put additional strain on the tendon
  • Anatomical abnormalities such as flat feet or high arches
  • Age, as tendons naturally weaken with age
  • Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis
  • Certain medications such as Levoquin antibiotic use

Regardless of the cause or risk factors involved, seek medical attention if you are facing symptoms of peroneal tendinopathy. With proper treatment and management, most individuals are able to recover fully from this condition and resume their normal activities without pain or discomfort.

Diagnosing Peroneal Tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy is typically diagnosed through physical examination. Imaging studies such as x-rays or ultrasounds may be used to help detect any damage to the tendon or surrounding structures. In some cases, a doctor may recommend further testing, such as an MRI or CT scan, if the diagnosis is still unclear after the initial physical exam and imaging tests have been completed. For more insight into the diagnosis, get the right information from us at Northern Ankle Foot Associates. We provide advanced care to help diagnose and treat the condition.

Treatments For Peroneal Tendinopathy

There are several options for the treatment of peroneal tendinopathy, which involves both surgical and non-surgical methods.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

For mild to moderate cases of peroneal tendinopathy, non-surgical treatments such as:

Resting And Icing

One of the most effective non-surgical treatments for this condition is to rest and ice the affected area. These simple steps can go a long way toward helping to reduce the swelling and pain that are often associated with peroneal tendinopathy.

Resting the affected area is important because it allows the tendon time to heal. When you rest, you are giving your body the opportunity to repair any damage that has occurred. This can help reduce inflammation and swelling, and it can also help alleviate any pain you may be experiencing.

Icing the affected area is another effective treatment for peroneal tendinopathy. Ice helps to reduce inflammation and swelling, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. Applying ice to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and pain.

Physical Therapy

Other non-surgical treatment options for peroneal tendinopathy include physical therapy, which can help strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected area. This can help reduce the risk of further injury and can also help alleviate pain and discomfort. Additionally, physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, flexibility, and overall strength.

Medication

In addition to non-surgical treatments, medications may also be prescribed to manage the pain and inflammation associated with peroneal tendinopathy. While these medications do not directly treat the underlying condition, they can help alleviate the symptoms and improve overall comfort. Painkillers may be prescribed in varying strengths, depending on the severity and the individual patient’s needs.

Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen may also be prescribed. These drugs work to reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area, which can help relieve pain and improve mobility.

The most common conservative treatment is controlong the excessive motion of the foot causing the overuse to occur with supportive shoes and/or arch supports and custom orthotics.

Surgical Treatment Options

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon. If surgery is required, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is best suited to your needs and your individual situation.

Tendon Debridement

One of the most common surgical treatments for peroneal tendinopathy is tendon debridement. This procedure involves trimming, cleaning, or removing any damaged or inflamed tissue from the affected tendon. This can help to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and reduce pain in the affected area. By removing any damaged tissue, the tendon is able to heal more quickly and effectively. Additionally, this procedure can help to improve range of motion and flexibility in the affected area.

Tendon Repair

In some cases, a more extensive procedure may be necessary to repair any damage that has occurred. During this procedure, the surgeon will cut into the area that is hurt and fix any damage to the tendon that has happened. Depending on the severity of the damage, a number of different techniques may be used to repair the tendon. This procedure can help improve mobility, reduce pain and discomfort, and help restore strength and range of motion.

Prevention Tips For Avoiding Peroneal Tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy can be avoided, or at least kept from getting worse, by taking the following steps:

  • Warm up and stretch before any physical activities.
  • Take breaks during periods of excessive activity.
  • Wear appropriate footwear that is supportive and fits properly.
  • Avoid overstretching and making sudden, jerky movements with the foot or ankle.
  • Perform the exercises that prevent peroneal tendinopathy.
  • If you are overweight, work to lose weight, as this can help reduce stress on the tendon and lessen irritation.

Benefits Of Early Intervention For Peroneal Tendinopathy

Early intervention for peroneal tendinopathy can be beneficial in a number of ways. This includes:

  • Reducing the pain and inflammation caused by the condition.
  • Increasing mobility and range of motion.
  • Strengthening the muscles around the foot and ankle.
  • Improving balance and coordination.
  • Helping to prevent further injury or damage to the tendon.
  • Reducing the need for long-term treatment or surgery.

Get The Best Treatment Services At Northern Ankle Foot

At Northern Ankle Foot Associates, come in to get the proper assistance for your condition from our doctors. You should not prolong your condition, as it may result in further difficulties. If you are in doubt regarding the condition, consult with us by booking an appointment easily through our website. We will provide you with the best services and make sure that your condition improves as soon as possible.

Get in touch with our specialists today to get started on the road to recovery. With years of experience, our team is equipped to handle any type of foot or ankle issue with the utmost care and attention.