Pronounced: Per-o-NEE-al ten-din-AH-path-ee
Peroneal tendinopathy is an injury to the peroneal tendons. These tendons run along the outside of each ankle bone. You may have inflammation or a small tear in them. Pain can be acute (short, sharp, or intense) or chronic (long-lasting). Tendinopathy is often a chronic (long-lasting) condition.
This injury can be treated. Contact your doctor if you think you may have it.
Peroneal tendinopathy often occurs as a result of:
These factors increase your chance of this injury. Talk to your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
Sports enthusiasts are at greater risk of ankle injuries.
If you have any of these do not assume it is due to peroneal tendinopathy. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may see a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
Tests may include the following:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
A cast, splint, or brace may be needed. They will help keep your foot and ankle from moving. You may be asked to wear special shoes or inserts. It may also be best to stay off inclined surfaces.
Your doctor may give you medications for pain. This can include:
Steroid injections may also be prescribed to relieve pain. Care must be taken with injections. There is a possibility of tendon rupture after steroid injection.
You may need surgery to repair the tendon or other structures of your foot.
Often after surgery, physical therapy is needed. Therapy will help to regain strength and range of motion within the foot and ankle.
To help reduce your chance of getting peroneal tendinopathy, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
American
Academy
of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org/
American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society
http://www.aofas.org/
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine
http://www.sportsmed.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
References:
AHRQ National Guideline Clearinghouse. ACR Appropriateness Criteria chronic ankle pain. AHRQ National Guideline Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=8285&nbr=4617&ss=6&xl=999. Accessed May 27, 2009.
American College of Food and Ankle Surgeons. Peroneal tendon injuries. American College of Food and Ankle Surgeons consumer website Available at: http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinfo/peroneal-tendon.htm. Accessed May 27, 2009.
Cerrato RA, Myerson MS. Peroneal Tendon Tears, Surgical Management and Its Complications. Foot and Ankle Clinics - Volume 14, Issue 2 (June 2009).
Heckman D, Reddy M, Pedowitz D, et al. Operative treatment for peroneal tendon disorders. J Bone Joint Surg [Am]. 2008; 90:404-418. Available at: http://www.ejbjs.org/cgi/content/full/90/2/404. Accessed May 27, 2009.
Peroneal tendinopathy. EBSCO Dynamed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated May 21, 2009. Accessed May 27, 2009.
Last reviewed June 2009 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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