Peroneal Tendinopathy
What are the Peroneal Tendons
There are typically two peroneal tendons that run behind the fibular bone. They attach the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles to the foot. They are responsible for eversion of the foot and also provide stability to the lateral ligaments.
Where is the pain located with peroneal tendinopathy?
Pain can occur anywhere along the length of the peroneal tendons and also at the insertion of the tendons
What causes problems with the Peroneal Tendons?
Acute Injuries:
- Ankle sprain
- Direct trauma to the peroneal tendons
- Sudden overuse injury (snowboarding)
Chronic Pathology:
- Biomechanical foot and ankle dysfunction – typically seen in an inverted foot (cavus foot or high arch)
- Accessory bones (os peroneum)
- Large peroneal tubercle
Click For more information about individual peroneal tendinopathies:
- Peroneus Longus Tendinopathy
- Peroneus Brevis Tendinopathy
Diagnosis of Peroneal tendon pathology
Diagnosis is generally made with specific signs and symptoms – when the pain occurs and the location.
Ultrasound imaging at the Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre can also aid in diagnosis.
The below picture shows acute inflammation of the peroneus longus tendon.
The below picture shows chronic degeneration of the peroneus longus tendon with an intra substance tear.
Treatment of Peroneal Tendinopathy
Treatment aims to reduce the disorganisation of the connective tissue in the Achilles tendon and also minimise the risk factors for re-injury. This can include
- Shockwave therapy
- Orthotic correction of any biomechanical abnormalities
- Taping
- Home Massage techniques
What else could it be? (differential diagnosis)
Other problems that can cause similar pain to peroneal tendinopathy include:
Avulsion fracture of the 5th Metatarsal
Anterior process of the Calcaneum Fracture
The Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre’s Northcote Podiatrists can help you with all your lower limb complaints, including peroneal pain. Make an appointment to get your foot and ankle pain under control.
Expert Podiatrists for the treatment of ankle pain servicing the areas of Northcote, Thornbury, Fitzroy, North Fitzroy, Carlton, North Carlton, Alphington, Fairfield, Brunswick, Coburg and Preston
Call The Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre for further advice on professional management and treatment options.