Peroneal Tendinitis and Pain Along the Outside of the Ankle
Pain along the outside of your ankle may appear after a hike, run, workout, or even on an ordinary day on your feet. When discomfort follows the path behind the ankle bone and toward the outer foot, the peroneal tendons may be involved.
At Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, we help patients in Tucson and surrounding Arizona communities identify and treat tendon injuries affecting the foot and ankle.
What Do the Peroneal Tendons Do?
Two peroneal tendons run along the outside of the lower leg, pass behind the outer ankle bone, and attach to the foot. They help stabilize the ankle and support the foot as you walk, run, or move across uneven ground.
Repetitive strain can irritate these tendons, causing a condition known as peroneal tendinitis. The problem may develop gradually or follow an ankle injury.
Common contributing factors include:
- A sudden increase in exercise
- Running or hiking on uneven surfaces
- Repetitive side-to-side movement
- Unsupportive or worn-out shoes
- High arches
- Incomplete recovery from an ankle sprain
What Does Peroneal Tendinitis Feel Like?
Symptoms may include aching, tenderness, or swelling behind the outer ankle bone or along the side of the foot. Pain often becomes more noticeable during activity, particularly when pushing off, turning, or walking on sloped terrain.
Because fractures, ligament injuries, and other tendon problems can cause similar symptoms, the location of the pain alone cannot confirm a diagnosis. A podiatrist may examine the ankle’s strength and range of motion and order imaging when necessary.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and duration of the injury. Initial care may include temporarily reducing aggravating activities, applying ice, wearing supportive footwear, or using a brace or walking boot. Physical therapy may help restore strength, flexibility, and ankle stability.
Custom orthotics may also help when foot structure or mechanics repeatedly overload the tendons. Surgery is generally reserved for significant tears or symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatment.
Do not continue pushing through outer ankle pain if it is worsening or changing the way you walk. Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists can identify the cause and recommend treatment. We provide comprehensive foot and ankle services to patients throughout Tucson, Oro Valley, and surrounding areas of Pima County, Arizona. Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., are here to help you get back on your feet. Call (520) 575-0800 or contact us online.
