Peroneal tendinitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the peroneal tendons, which are located along the outer side of the ankle. These tendons play an important role in stabilizing the foot and ankle during movement. Treatment options for peroneal tendinitis may include rest, supportive footwear, KT Tape, MLS laser therapy, shockwave therapy, custom orthotics, and surgery when necessary. Our Albuquerque podiatrists evaluate the cause of persistent tendon pain and recommend treatment based on the severity of the injury.
Causes of Peroneal Tendinitis
The primary causes of peroneal tendinitis are repetitive overuse and excessive stress on the tendons. This can occur during activities that involve repetitive ankle movements, such as running, jumping, or walking on uneven surfaces. Foot structure, training changes, previous injuries, and conditions that affect ankle mechanics may also place additional stress on the peroneal tendons.
Symptoms of Peroneal Tendonitis
Common symptoms of peroneal tendinitis include pain and tenderness along the outer ankle or foot, swelling, and difficulty with certain movements, especially those that involve pushing off the toes or changing direction. Some people may also experience ankle weakness or instability.
The diagnosis of peroneal tendinitis typically involves a physical examination by a podiatrist, who may assess the area for tenderness, swelling, strength, stability, and tendon function. Imaging studies such as X-rays or advanced diagnostic imaging may be recommended to rule out fractures or other possible causes of outer ankle pain.
Treating Peroneal Tendonitis With Our Albuquerque Podiatrist
Treatment for peroneal tendinitis typically begins with conservative measures designed to reduce pain and inflammation, protect the tendon, and support healing. Depending on your symptoms, treatment may include:
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms can reduce stress on the injured tendon and allow it time to heal.
- Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area may help reduce temporary pain and swelling.
- Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended when medically appropriate.
- Supportive footwear and orthotics: Wearing supportive shoes or using custom orthotics can help improve foot mechanics, increase stability, and reduce strain on the peroneal tendons.
- Immobilization: In more significant injuries, a walking boot or brace may be used temporarily to protect the tendon and allow healing.
Treating Peroneal Tendonitis With Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment option that may be considered for persistent tendon pain. The treatment uses controlled acoustic pressure waves directed toward the affected tissue to stimulate the body's healing response.
For patients with chronic peroneal tendon pain that has not responded adequately to basic conservative care, shockwave therapy may be incorporated into a broader treatment plan designed to reduce discomfort and improve function. Your podiatrist can determine whether this treatment is appropriate after evaluating the severity and cause of the peroneal tendon injury.
MLS Laser Therapy for Peroneal Tendon Pain
MLS laser therapy is another non-invasive option used at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute for certain painful and inflamed foot and ankle conditions. The treatment uses synchronized laser wavelengths directed toward the affected tissue.
MLS laser therapy may be incorporated into treatment for persistent tendon pain to help address discomfort and inflammation while supporting the healing process. Treatment is quick and non-invasive, and your Albuquerque podiatrist can determine whether laser therapy is appropriate for your specific tendon injury.
KT Tape Video Transcription
Peroneal tendon pain typically occurs on the outside portion of the ankle, just behind the ankle bone and extending up the side of the leg. The location of pain may vary slightly above or below this area. In newer anatomy texts, this muscle group may also be referred to as the fibularis muscles. Common contributors can include overuse or trauma, poorly fitting shoes, and running or walking on uneven surfaces.
KT Tape may provide additional stability and support while helping relieve pressure over the painful area. For this application, place the ankle in a neutral, approximately 90-degree position.
Take one full strip of tape and twist and tear the backing paper to create an anchor point on one end, usually the logo end. Place this anchor just to the inside of the heel bone near the bottom of the foot, angling the tape toward the outside portion of the foot.
Remove the backing paper while leaving a small portion at the end so you can hold the tape without touching the adhesive. Apply approximately 50% stretch to the middle portion of the tape. Angle the tape so that it travels behind the outside ankle bone and then bends upward along the side of the leg over the area of discomfort.
Remove the remaining backing and apply the final portion of the tape with no stretch. Rub the tape gently to create heat and help activate the adhesive.
For the second strip, take another full piece of tape and create an anchor in the same way. Place this anchor approximately at mid-foot on the inside of the foot, pointing backward toward the heel.
Remove the backing while leaving a small portion at the end to hold. Apply approximately 50% stretch through the middle of the strip, guiding the tape below the inside ankle bone and wrapping it around toward the outside ankle bone. Apply the final portion of the tape with no stretch and rub the tape to help improve adhesion.
Summary of KT Tape for Peroneal Tendonitis
- Peroneal tendinitis can cause pain along the outside of the ankle and up the side of the lower leg.
- Common contributing factors include overuse, trauma, poorly fitting shoes, and running or walking on uneven surfaces.
- KT Tape may provide temporary support and stability for the ankle and reduce pressure over the affected tendon.
- The first strip begins near the inside of the heel and is applied toward the outside ankle and up the side of the leg.
- The middle portion of the tape is applied with approximately 50% stretch, while the anchors and ends are applied without stretch.
- A second strip provides additional support around the ankle and foot.
- KT Tape should be considered a supportive measure rather than a substitute for evaluation when tendon pain is persistent, worsening, or associated with weakness or instability.
When to See a Podiatrist for Peroneal Tendonitis
Temporary outer ankle soreness from activity may improve with rest and supportive care, but persistent pain can indicate a peroneal tendon injury that needs further evaluation. Tendon problems can become more difficult to treat when repetitive stress continues without addressing the underlying cause.
You should schedule an evaluation if pain or swelling along the outside of your ankle does not improve, symptoms repeatedly return when you exercise, your ankle feels weak or unstable, you have difficulty walking or pushing off the foot, or you experienced a sudden injury followed by significant pain. Our Albuquerque foot and ankle injury specialists can determine whether your symptoms are caused by tendonitis, a tendon tear, an ankle injury, or another condition.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include activity modification, immobilization, rehabilitation, supportive footwear, custom orthotics, MLS laser therapy, shockwave therapy, or surgical treatment when appropriate.