Summary about Disease
Peroneal tendonitis is an overuse injury affecting one or both of the peroneal tendons, which run along the outside of the ankle and foot. These tendons help stabilize the foot and ankle and facilitate eversion (turning the foot outward). Inflammation of these tendons causes pain and discomfort.
Symptoms
Pain along the outside of the ankle, often behind the lateral malleolus (the bony bump on the outside of the ankle).
Pain that worsens with activity, especially running, walking, or activities involving repetitive ankle motion.
Swelling and tenderness around the peroneal tendons.
Stiffness in the ankle.
A popping or snapping sensation in the ankle.
Pain may radiate up the lower leg.
Weakness when trying to turn the foot outward.
Causes
Overuse: Repetitive activities like running or jumping, especially with increased intensity or duration.
Improper training: Sudden increases in training volume or intensity.
Inadequate footwear: Shoes that don't provide enough support.
Ankle sprains: A previous ankle sprain can damage the peroneal tendons or surrounding structures.
High arches: High arches can place increased stress on the peroneal tendons.
Tight calf muscles: Tightness can alter biomechanics and strain the tendons.
Direct trauma: A blow to the outside of the ankle.
Abnormal foot structure: Such as cavus foot (high arch) or varus hindfoot.
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Topical NSAIDs: Creams or gels containing NSAIDs can be applied directly to the affected area.
Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a doctor may inject a corticosteroid into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation, but this is not a long-term solution and can have potential side effects. (Use with caution and under medical supervision.)
Is Communicable
No, peroneal tendonitis is not communicable. It is an injury caused by overuse or other factors and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Proper footwear: Wear supportive shoes that fit well and are appropriate for your activities.
Gradual training: Increase training intensity and duration gradually.
Warm-up and stretching: Always warm up before exercise and stretch your calf muscles regularly.
Strengthening exercises: Strengthen the muscles around the ankle and foot.
Orthotics: Use orthotics (arch supports) if you have high arches or other foot problems.
Listen to your body: Stop activities if you experience pain and rest.
Ankle Support: Consider using an ankle brace or taping for support during activities.
How long does an outbreak last?
Peroneal tendonitis is not an "outbreak," but rather an injury. The duration of symptoms varies depending on the severity of the injury and how well it is managed. With proper treatment and rest, symptoms may improve within a few weeks to several months. Without treatment, it can become a chronic condition.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical examination: A doctor will examine your ankle and foot, assess your range of motion, and check for tenderness along the peroneal tendons.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, activities, and any previous injuries.
Imaging tests:
X-rays: To rule out other conditions, such as fractures.
MRI: To visualize the peroneal tendons and surrounding tissues and assess for tears or inflammation.
Ultrasound: To evaluate the tendons dynamically and identify areas of inflammation or thickening.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary, but a general progression might look like this:
Early Stage: Mild pain along the outside of the ankle after activity. Pain usually subsides with rest.
Intermediate Stage: Pain increases with activity and may persist even at rest. Swelling and tenderness may be present.
Late Stage/Chronic: Constant pain, even with minimal activity. Ankle stiffness and weakness. Pain may radiate further up the leg. Possible development of peroneal tendon tears or other complications.
Important Considerations
Early intervention is key: Seeking treatment early can prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
Rest is crucial: Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen your ankle and foot muscles, improve your range of motion, and correct any biomechanical problems.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tendons or correct underlying structural problems.
Complete rehabilitation: Follow your doctor's and physical therapist's instructions carefully to ensure complete recovery and prevent recurrence.