Peroneal Tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy is a painful condition which afflicts the tendon that extends along the lateral malleolus on the outside of your ankle and under the foot into the 1^st MT (metatarsal). The associated muscle assists in plantar flexion, in which the foot is pointed downwards.

Symptoms of Patellofemoral Syndrome

Pain will be present in and around the bony protuberance on the edge of the ankle (lateral malleolus), and can radiate down the heel. This is made more intense during physical activity and can be relieved during periods of rest. Pushing on the lateral malleolus with a finger can usually replicate the pain, and the aching may also be present when performing movement such as plantar flexion that rely on the peroneal tendon. Swelling might also arise in the area, and the calf muscles can often feel excessively tight.

Causes of Patellofemoral Syndrome

There are various causes of the condition, but a prominent cause is a tendency to run down slopes or on other uneven surfaces, making your foot repeatedly roll outwards (eversion). This can place inordinate pressure on the tendon and the surrounding muscles. Existing rigidity in your leg muscles, particularly the calf muscles, can also contribute to peroneal tendinopathy. Typical overuse practices can provoke the condition, especially in sports or activities that involve intricate foot motions such as dancing and basketball. Overuse can occur due to inadequate stretches or warm ups, inappropriate gear for your activities (particularly footwear in this instance), and as a result of continuing to exercise on muscles weak with fatigue. Uncorrected biomechanical errors in the feet like overpronation can also put you at higher risk.

Treatment for Patellofemoral Syndrome

It is important to rest from all strenuous activity involving the affected foot and ankle until your symptoms have diminished and you have approval from your doctor. They will be able to examine you in order to assess the injury and dismiss any more serious injuries. In general you will be asked to ice the injured area a few times per day to reduce pain, and may be prescribed anti-inflammatory pain medication like ibuprofen to combat any swelling. When you are pain free, a gradual course of supervised physical therapy can help to successfully build back the strength in the peroneal and calf muscles, while massaging these areas can relieve much tension and help the muscles in other ways. In very severe instances the doctor might recommend surgery due to great damage to the tendon, but usually the prognosis is good.

Prevention of Patellofemoral Syndrome

You may want to alter your running exercises to incorporate more flat surfaces, thus putting your peroneal muscles and tendons under less strain. If you have biomechanical foot problems, these can easily be corrected by wearing the correct orthotics in your shoes; see your doctor for more details. In terms of overuse, always conduct a suitable warm up and try not to continue a training or sports session if your muscles feel noticeable weakened.