Peroneal Tendonitis Treatment in Los Angeles

What is Peroneal Tendonitis?

Peroneal tendonitis is the inflammation of the peroneal tendons, which run along the outer ankle and foot, causing pain and stiffness due to overuse or injury. The peroneal tendons are located on the outer side of the ankle, with their corresponding muscles running along the outer calf. These tendons play a crucial role in foot movement, allowing the foot to flex downward and away from the other foot. There are two peroneal tendons: the peroneus brevis, which is shorter, and the peroneus longus, which extends farther.

Left untreated, this condition can lead to split tears, worsening pain, and further tendon damage. Diagnosis involves a thorough clinical examination, which may include an in-office diagnostic ultrasound or MRI to assess the severity of the injury.

If you’re suffering from tendonitis of your outer ankle, we have the best foot and ankle specialist in Los Angeles, Dr. Soomekh, leading our expert team. Under his guidance, our team ensures you recover quickly and your mobility is restored.

Signs and Symptoms of Peroneal Tendonitis

Patients with peroneal tendonitis often experience pain and instability in the ankle. Common symptoms include:

• Deep, aching pain on the outer side of the ankle, especially with walking or activity
• Strained, frayed, or torn tendons, which may split over time
• Tendon dislocation from its groove along the outer ankle bone
• Increased risk for individuals with high-arched feet
• Associated damage in patients with a history of severe ankle sprains or chronic ankle instability

Causes of Peroneal Tendonitis

Several factors can contribute to peroneal tendonitis, including:

• Repetitive overuse or excessive strain on the tendons
• Acute trauma or injury to the ankle
• High-arched foot structure, which places additional stress on the peroneal tendons
• Chronic ankle instability or previous severe ankle sprains

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Peroneal Tendonitis Treatment Options

Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment and preventing further tendon damage. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include:

Conservative Treatments:

• Rest and Immobilization: A special walking boot can help offload the tendon and allow healing.
• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can improve strength and stability in the ankle.
• Custom Orthotics: Specially molded orthotics help realign foot mechanics and reduce stress on the tendons, minimizing the risk of recurrence.

Advanced Therapies:

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: In chronic cases, PRP injections can stimulate healing and repair damaged tendon tissue.

Surgical Intervention:

• Tendon Repair Surgery: In cases of severe damage, surgical removal of damaged tissue and repair of split tendons may be necessary.
• Deepening of the Tendon Groove: If tendon dislocation is present, the groove in the ankle bone may be surgically deepened to keep the tendons in place.
• Tendon Augmentation: In severe cases, the tendon may need reinforcement using donor tissue, PRP, or stem cell therapy to optimize healing and function.