If you’ve been experiencing swelling, pain, and instability in the back of your foot; you may be suffering from a peroneal tendon injury. The peroneal tendon is two bands of tissue that connect various muscles and bones behind the outer ankle bone. There are two peroneal tendons; one is located along the outside of the outer-foot and the other is underneath the foot, attaching to the arch. Peroneal tendons help to protect from sprains, support the foot, and assist in stabilizing the ankle. Injury to these tendons is very common and the severity of the damage varies between each case. If you believe you may have fallen victim to a peroneal tendon injury, it is important that you seek professional attention. If you have been in search of a podiatrist on Long Island, consider contacting Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York. Our team specializes in all issues of the lower extremity, including peroneal tendon injuries.

Causes and Types of Injuries

Depending on your specific condition, peroneal tendon injuries can be either acute (sudden) or chronic (developing). Athletes that participate in activities involving repetitive ankle movements are highly susceptible to these types of complications. Those who have higher foot arches are also at risk of developing issues. There are three main peroneal tendon injuries that are known to be frequent:

• Tendonitis: Tendonitis will occur if either tendon is inflamed. This may be caused by repetitive motions that apply pressure on the tendon. This can also lead to an ankle sprain. Symptoms of tendonitis can include:

• Pain and swelling.
• Warm to the touch.

• Acute tears: Acute tears can be caused by direct trauma or repetitive movements. If you believe you are experiencing this. you may also be experiencing various symptoms such as:

• Pain and swelling.
• Instability and weakness in the ankle or foot.
• Ankle sprains – sprains that do not improve after 2 months may be a warning sign of a peroneal tear.
• Degenerative tears: Degenerative tears are typically developed over a long period of time. In this case, the tendon becomes taffy-like because it is over-stretched. As the tendon becomes increasingly worn-out, it begins to thin and fray. If you have a high arch, you are more susceptible to this type of injury. Symptoms may include:

• Random, sharp pain on the outside of the ankle.
• Instability and weakness in the ankle.
• Increasing arch height.

• Subluxation: Subluxation occurs when the tendons fall out of their normal position. Although subluxation may be genetically obtained, it can also occur upon experiencing trauma. Chronic tendon subluxation can be diagnosed if one is experiencing:

• A snapping feeling around the ankle.
• Random and sharp pains behind the ankle.
• Instability and weakness in the ankle.

Treatment

Without proper treatment, peroneal tendon injuries can easily worsen over time. Prompt podiatrist attention is critical upon experiencing symptoms. Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, a podiatrist on Long Island, can evaluate your condition and diagnose your injury. Depending on your case, there are non-surgical and surgical options. Non-surgical include:

• Immobilization: Resting in a cast, brace, or splint.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medicines to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: As symptoms improve, exercises can be done to strengthen the muscle.

Surgical treatment may be necessary if the tendons are damaged to the point where they need to be repaired. Our team of professionals will determine the most appropriate procedure for your individualized injury and lifestyle. If you believe you are suffering from a peroneal tendon injury and are looking for a podiatrist on Long Island, Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York encourages you to schedule an appointment so we can relieve your pain and get you back on your feet.