What is a Peroneal Tendonitis?

A Peroneal Tendonitis is a break in the calcaneus (heel bone) usually due to trauma, falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

What are the symptoms of a Peroneal Tendonitis?

Symptoms may include severe heel pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and inability to bear weight.

How are Peroneal Tendonitis treated?

Treatment often includes imaging evaluation, immobilization, rest, bracing, or surgical repair depending on fracture severity.

When should I see a specialist for a Peroneal Tendonitis?

You should see a foot and ankle specialist promptly if you experience severe pain, swelling, or inability to walk after an injury.

Peroneal Tendonitis Treatment Miami, FL

Peroneal Tendonitis

Peroneal tendonitis is inflammation of the peroneal tendons located on the outside of the ankle. These tendons help stabilize the ankle and prevent rolling or twisting injuries. The condition commonly occurs from overuse or acute injury, especially in athletes and active individuals who perform repeated ankle movements such as running, jumping, or cutting motions.

Causes

Peroneal tendonitis can develop due to:

Repetitive ankle motion in sports or physical activity
Sudden overload of the ankle during a sprain or accident
Improper footwear or technique during activity
Overtraining or inadequate recovery
High arches, muscle imbalance, or weak lower limb strength
Poor rehabilitation following a previous ankle injury

Over time, the tendons may thicken to adapt to increased stress, but scar tissue can develop, making them more prone to tears.

Symptoms

Signs of peroneal tendonitis include:

Pain behind the ankle that worsens with activity
Pain when rolling the foot inward or outward
Swelling and warmth over the tendon
Instability when bearing weight

Diagnosis

Your doctor will review your medical history and physical activity. The ankle will be examined for pain, swelling, and instability. Imaging may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis or rule out related injuries:

X-ray: To rule out fractures or bone abnormalities
MRI or Ultrasound: To visualize tendon inflammation, thickening, or tears

Treatment

Non-Surgical Options

Most cases of peroneal tendonitis respond to conservative management:

Activity modification: Reducing or avoiding aggravating activities
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections
Immobilization: Cast, boot, or splint to rest the tendon
Bracing: To stabilize the ankle and reduce stress on the tendons
Physical Therapy: Stretching, strengthening, and restoring flexibility

Surgical Options

Surgery is rarely needed, but may be considered if:

The tendon is being irritated by surrounding tissue
There is a tendon tear that requires repair

Postoperative physical therapy helps restore ankle strength, flexibility, and stability.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of peroneal tendonitis:

Wear activity-appropriate footwear
Stretch the calf and ankle before exercise
Gradually increase training intensity and workload
Maintain ankle strength and flexibility year-round

Why Choose Dr. Alejandro Pino

Dr. Pino is an expert in foot and ankle tendon injuries and focuses on minimally invasive treatments to reduce recovery time and restore full function. He tailors treatment plans to your activity level and lifestyle, ensuring the ankle regains strength, mobility, and stability. His approach emphasizes both prevention and rehabilitation, helping patients return safely to sports or daily activities.