Symptoms and Treatment of Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal tendonitis is a condition that affects the peroneal tendons in the foot. These two tendons run behind the outer ankle bone down to the middle area of the foot. One of these tendons is found under the foot where the arch is located while the other tendon attaches to the bone at the outer area, near the “flat” side of the foot. We are going to take a look at what causes this condition, the symptoms that often accompany it, and traditional methods of treatment.
Causes of Peroneal Tendonitis
We can easily demand too much of our body and the fact that our feet are used on a regular basis puts them at increased risk. Tendonitis literally means the inflammation of a tendon, and in most cases this is often caused repetitive strain to the tendon. Tendonitis of the peroneal tendons is often linked to sports because of the physical strain that sports maneuvers cause. Many athletes who play sports which involve a great deal of running have come across this condition due to the repetitive tension this causes in the tendons. Twisting the ankle in an abnormal fashion can also damage the peroneal tendons by making them stretch too far, or in a manner in which they were not meant to do so.
Symptoms of Peroneal Tendonitis
Over-stretching the tendons would be the best case scenario when it comes to tendonitis, as the pain and recovery associated with this type of tendonitis are often short-lived. As with most types of inflammation, the outer area of the foot, or even the underside of the foot where the arch is located, may become red and warm to the touch. Swelling is likely to result and bruising can sometimes occur if the tendonitis is particularly severe. The area will often be painful to move and sometimes even painful to the touch. The pain usually intensifies when one walks or flexes the foot or ankle.
The initial symptoms may vary in severity. For instance, discomfort may only be felt when the foot or ankle is flexed, or there could be pain while the foot is resting. If peroneal tendonitis is not treated properly in the early stages, it can progress to a partial or full tearing of the tendon itself. When this occurs, the symptoms intensify significantly to the point that movement becomes severely hindered due to the resulting pain.
Treatment and Recovery
When treating a mild to moderate case of peroneal tendonitis, there is a nifty anagram that can help one remember what to do: R.I.C.E. This stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In order to prevent the tendonitis from turning into an out-right tear, it is important that pressure is taken off of the foot as soon as possible. In fact, it is best if the foot is able to be immobilized for at least 24 – 48 hours after the initial injury. Ice should be applied directly to the affected area, whether it be the outer portion of the foot or the underside where the arch is located. The ice should be held there continuously for about 20 minutes, but no longer as this could result in skin cell damage. Ice may be re-applied in increments of 4 hours until the swelling has subsided. Swelling should go down within 48 hours. If possible, use an ankle compression band or wrap the foot and ankle with a stretchy, breathable bandage to lend it support and also to aid in the reduction of swelling. Last, but certainly not least, is elevation. Although the general idea is to elevate the injured area above heart level, this is very uncomfortable and not very practical while one is sat upright. That is why it is recommended that one take a lying position and use pillows to prop the foot up above heart level. This position should be maintained for at least 24 hours after the initial injury occurs.
If bruising, swelling, or pain is severe, or one is not able to move the affected ankle or foot, then medical attention should be sought immediately. These symptoms are indicative of a possible tear. A full tear, if left untreated or if treated too late, can result in loss of moment of the foot.