Peroneal Tendinopathy
Peroneal tendinopathy is a condition that affects the tendons running along the outside of your ankle and foot. These tendons help support your ankle and keep your foot stable when you walk, run and change direction.
The condition usually develops gradually through overuse, repeated strain or an ankle injury. Without treatment, the pain may continue to worsen and affect your daily activities.
At Abbeyhill Footcare, we'll assess your symptoms, identify the cause of your pain and recommend the treatment that's right for you.
What causes peroneal tendinopathy?
Peroneal tendinopathy can develop for a number of reasons, including:
- Overuse from walking, running or sport
- Previous ankle sprains
- Repeated strain on the tendons
- Changes in the way your foot moves
- Unsupportive footwear
- Weakness around the foot or ankle
Finding the cause of your symptoms helps us create the most effective treatment plan.
Common symptoms
You may experience:
- Pain on the outside of your foot or ankle
- Swelling around the ankle
- Pain when walking, running or exercising
- Tenderness along the outside of the foot
- Weakness or a feeling of instability
- Pain that gets worse with activity
How Abbeyhill Footcare Can Help
At Abbeyhill Footcare, we'll carry out a full assessment to understand what's causing your pain.
Depending on your symptoms, your treatment may include:
- Personalised rehabilitation exercises
- Advice on reducing strain while the tendon heals
- Footwear recommendations
- Orthotics, where appropriate
- Shockwave therapy for long-lasting tendon pain
- Diagnostic ultrasound referral if further investigation is needed
Our goal is to reduce your pain, improve your movement and help you return to your normal activities as safely as possible.
When should you see a podiatrist?
It's a good idea to book an appointment if:
- Your pain has lasted more than a couple of weeks
- Walking or exercise is becoming uncomfortable
- Your ankle feels weak or unstable
- Your symptoms keep coming back
- Home treatments aren't helping
Early treatment can help speed up recovery and reduce the risk of the problem becoming long-term.
FAQs
What is peroneal tendinopathy?
Peroneal tendinopathy is irritation or damage to the tendons on the outside of your ankle. It often develops from overuse, repeated strain or a previous ankle injury.
Can peroneal tendinopathy heal on its own?
Some mild cases improve with rest, but ongoing symptoms often need the right treatment and exercises to recover fully.
Can I still exercise with peroneal tendinopathy?
You may be able to stay active, but it's important to avoid activities that make your pain worse. We'll advise you on how to recover safely while staying as active as possible.
Does shockwave therapy help?
Shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for long-lasting tendon pain. Your podiatrist will let you know if it's suitable for your condition.
Will I need orthotics?
If the way your feet move is contributing to your symptoms, orthotics may help reduce pressure on the tendons and improve comfort.
When should I see a podiatrist?
If your pain isn't improving, keeps returning or is affecting your walking or sport, it's worth booking an assessment so treatment can begin as early as possible.