
Ankle pain can interfere with your life in a major way, without the right information and treatment options. If you have pain on the outside of your ankle, especially when turning your foot outward, you could be experiencing peroneal tendonitis. The first step toward an effective treatment is learning everything there is to know about symptoms, causes, and treatment to reduce recovery time and to prevent peroneal tendonitis from affecting you.
What is Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal tendonitis is an inflammation of the peroneal tendons. It is caused by prolonged or excessive activity and typically develops over a long period of time.
To understand peroneal tendonitis you first need to have a basic knowledge of the anatomy involved. Tendons connect muscle to bone and allow the muscle to apply force against the joints. The two peroneal tendons run along the outside of the foot and work to stabilize the ankle and prevent sprains. There are many different types of ankle instability and peroneal tendonitis is just one.
Peroneal Tendonitis Causes
Peroneal tendonitis causes are linked to overuse or improper shoe support. It is important to address any of these causes listed below before your peroneal tendonitis progresses into further tendon damage.
- Repetitive ankle movements
- Quick increase in exercise intensity
- High arches
- Tight calf muscles
Peroneal Tendonitis Symptoms
Peroneal tendonitis symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury. Your signs and symptoms may appear gradually or occur immediately after an ankle injury. Take a look at the symptoms listed below to see if you have peroneal tendonitis.
- Pain on the back of the ankle
- Swelling on the outside of the ankle
- Tenderness around the ankle
- Pain when turning the ankle outward
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Diagnosing Peroneal Tendonitis
Your doctor will diagnose your ankle injury based on imaging and an exam of your leg, ankle, and foot. Be prepared to answer questions relating to your recent physical activity. Since changes in exercise routines can cause peroneal tendonitis, notify your doctor of those changes as it will be vital information when obtaining an accurate diagnosis.
Physical Exam
During your physical exam, your doctor will check your foot and ankle. Pain, swelling, and ankle instability are all signs of peroneal tendonitis. Additional injuries can occur with peroneal tendonitis, so your doctor will determine if you need further testing.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound is an easy, non-invasive diagnostic that will show your doctor the tendons in your ankle. If you have tendon damage or tears your doctor will be able to see them through an ultrasound.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are expensive but provide an excellent image of the tendons and surrounding tissues in your ankle. Your doctor will discuss with you which diagnostic imaging is best for your injury.
Peroneal Tendonitis Treatment
Peroneal tendonitis treatment is determined based on the severity of your tendon injury. If you are experiencing the signs of peroneal tendonitis contact your doctor so treatment can be started immediately.
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NSAIDs
An NSAID, like ibuprofen or naproxen, will reduce the inflammation in your ankle. This, in turn, reduces your pain and increases the speed of healing. Consult your doctor before taking any medications.
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Ankle Brace
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An ankle brace for peroneal tendonitis will help immobilize your ankle. This is crucial after an injury so that you do not cause further damage. Look for an ankle stabilizer brace that is adjustable due to the rapid swelling that can occur on your ankle. A peroneal tendonitis brace is a great investment that will keep you on the road to recovery!
Products that Help Reduce Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal Tendonitis Recovery
Peroneal tendonitis recovery time will vary based on the severity of your injury. It is always best to take it easy and allow your ankle to fully heal before getting back into running or other physical activity. In most cases, this will take between two to three weeks.
If you have surgery you will not be able to bear weight on that foot for up to six weeks. Expect your doctor to recommend peroneal tendonitis physical therapy after surgery.
Preventing Peroneal Tendonitis
If you are active and have recently increased your physical activity, pain on the outside of your ankle could be peroneal tendonitis. A quick diagnosis with effective treatment will reduce your recovery time. Prevent further damage by resting your injured ankle and exploring one of the treatment options listed above. In no time at all you'll be walking confidently again.
Sources:
https://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/conditions/ailments-of-the-ankle/Pages/Peroneal-Tendonitis.aspx
https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/peroneal-tendon-injuries
https://www.acfas.org/footankleinfo/peroneal-tendon.htm