Peroneal Tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy can be caused by several factors. The most common causes are:

• Overload: Intense or repetitive activities such as running, jumping, or walking on uneven terrain can overload the peroneal tendons. Athletes and sportsmen therefore have a higher risk of developing this condition.
• Acute injuries: An ankle sprain or sudden movement that forces the ankle into an unnatural position can damage the peroneal tendons.
• Biomechanical influence: particularities such as flat feet, a high foot arch, or leg length differences can potentially cause additional stress on the peroneal tendons, leading to tendinopathy. It should be noted here that the relationship between stance abnormalities and injury is often not a direct relationship and may be brought about by several factors.
• Improper footwear: Wearing shoes without adequate support, especially during intense sports activities, can contribute to the development of peroneal tendinopathy.
• Insufficient warm-up: Skipping a proper warm-up before exercise can increase the risk of injury, including tendon problems.

Recognising the symptoms of peroneal tendinopathy is important for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The most common symptoms are:

• Pain on the outside of the ankle: This is the main symptom and can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. The pain may increase during or after physical activity, especially when walking or running.
• A snapping or creaking sound with movement: This sound may occur when moving the ankle, especially when turning the foot. This is a sign that the tendons are not gliding smoothly along the bones.
• Instability or weakness of the ankle: Pain and swelling can make the ankle feel less stable, increasing the risk of sprains or further injuries.
• Difficulty standing on toes: The pain can make it difficult to stand on toes or walk up stairs.
• Swelling: The outside of the ankle may show some swelling but not as obvious as, for example, swelling after an ankle sprain. This is often more present after intense activities or after a long day of standing.

At Fysio Fitaal Tilburg, we believe in a tailored approach to the treatment of peroneal nerve tendinopathy. Treatment consists of several phases aimed at reducing pain and inflammation, promoting recovery, and preventing future injuries.

1. Rest and immobilisation: In the acute phase, it is important to spare the ankle and rest. This helps prevent further irritation of the tendons. Sometimes a brace or tape can be used to stabilise the ankle and limit excessive movement.
2. Physiotherapy for peroneal tendinopathy: Our physiotherapists at Fysio Fitaal Tilburg use a combination of treatment methods to reduce pain and improve ankle function. This may include manual therapy to improve ankle mobility, massage for pain relief and exercise therapy to strengthen the tendons and muscles around the ankle.
3. Exercises for recovery: Specific exercises, such as strengthening the calf muscles and improving balance, are crucial for recovery. These exercises not only help to improve the load capacity of the tendons, but also increase the stability of the ankle.
4. Pain relief and anti-inflammation: In some cases, the use of anti-inflammatory medication can help reduce pain and swelling.
5. Rehabilitation programme: A gradually built rehabilitation programme is essential to minimise the risk of recurrence. Our physiotherapists will work with you to design a programme that suits your specific needs and goals.