Peroneal Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Peroneal tendonitis is a medical term referring to irritation, inflammation, or damage to the peroneal tendons, two tendons located on the outer side of the foot and ankle. These tendons connect the peroneus brevis and peroneus longus muscles of the lower leg to the outside and bottom of the foot. They rotate the foot outward in opposition to other strong tendons that rotate the foot inward on the inner side of the foot. This oppositional functioning is vital to comfort when standing and walking.
A variety of situations can cause injury to the peroneal tendons. Common causes include:
Ankle sprains
Running or walking on uneven surfaces
Poor footwear that does not support the ankles while walking or running
Symptoms of peroneal tendonitis can vary, but aching, sharp, or shooting pain at the outside of the ankle or foot is almost always present. It typically gets worse when the ankle is turned inward. Initially, the discomfort will worsen with activity and get better with rest, ice, and elevation, but in time the pain will become steady.
If you suspect that you have developed peroneal tendonitis, the first thing to do is schedule a visit with your foot doctor. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to address peroneal tendonitis or any other issue related to the health and well-being of your feet, ankles, and lower legs. After confirming your suspicion of peroneal tendonitis with an examination and careful diagnosis, your podiatrist will have a variety of treatment options available, including:
over-the-counter and prescription medications for pain and swelling
steroid injections
immobilization with a cast or boot
surgery, but only in the most severe cases
Are you concerned about peroneal tendonitis or any other podiatric health issue?
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.