How Do You Treat Peroneal Tendinopathy?

Foot Pain Relief: Best Treatments for Peroneal Tendinopathy

Peroneal tendinopathy involves degeneration or inflammation of the peroneal tendons (longus and brevis), which stabilize the outer ankle. Several principal treatments help relieve the condition without much hassle. However, surgical intervention may be necessary when symptoms persist even after non-surgical treatments.

In other cases, a physician may only prescribe steroid injections for more targeted relief. Therefore, it is crucial to learn about peroneal tendinopathy to understand its treatment options better. Keep reading to learn more about the treatments in detail.

What is common peroneal nerve tendinopathy?

Also known as peroneal tendonitis, this condition involves inflammation of the peroneal tendons, which are located along the outer side of the ankle. These strong connective tissues connect the muscles in the lower leg to the bones in the foot and serve as stabilisers, providing balance when in action.

When there is excessive use or acute trauma, such as rolling an ankle or falling on it, the tendons become swollen, and this results in foot tendonitis. Repetitive strain is most commonly responsible for this condition, but it can also be initiated suddenly from trauma.
 

What is the peroneal stop procedure?

When one or both peroneal tendons are too damaged, surgeons sometimes perform a peroneal stop procedure. This procedure involves excising the torn part of the damaged tendon and connecting its end to the adjacent healthy peroneal tendon.

Both tendons are also responsible for stabilising the ankle and foot, so this operation enables one tendon to do the job of both. Moreover, as these tendons are anatomically related, tissue harvesting from remote sites is not needed.

However, it's essential to preserve the peroneus brevis tendon at its insertion point on the 5th metatarsal bone, as it plays a more critical role than the peroneus longus in foot mechanics.

What is the treatment for peroneal tendonitis?
 

With conservative treatment, mild cases may improve in 3–6 weeks, while moderate to severe cases can take 3–6 months for full recovery. Principal treatments usually include:

• Bracing: Ankle bracing can help provide extra support during activities such as running or jumping and avoid additional strain on the tendons.
• Immobilisation: To aid recovery, a soft cast or orthopaedic boot is used. This reduces weight on the foot and prevents tendons from stressing due to movement.
• Medication: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some scenarios, medical professionals may recommend corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath for more targeted relief.But these are rarely used due to potential tendon damage.
• Physical Therapy: A rehabilitation program under a physical therapist involves exceptional flexibility and strengthening exercises to regain flexibility and tighten the tendons. Other physical therapies, such as ultrasound, heat, or ice, may also be used.
• RICE Technique: This is still the cornerstone of home care in initial recovery.
• R (Rest):Refrain from any high-impact or weight-bearing exercises.
• I (Ice): Use an ice pack for 15–20 minutes every two hours.
• C (Compression): Apply an elastic bandage to compress and support.
• E (Elevation): Rest the ankle above heart level, especially while asleep, to control swelling.
   

Is Surgery Required for Peroneal Tendonitis?

If peroneal tendonitis does not improve with conservative interventions like rest, physical therapy, or medication, surgery may be an option. Surgical options may include tendon debridement, repair, or tubularisation for severe tears. Synovectomy is reserved for cases with significant synovitis.

Some individuals may qualify for a minimally invasive synovectomy, which involves smaller incisions and typically allows for a quicker recovery.

What are the complications of peroneal tendonitis surgery?

As with any surgery, surgery for peroneal tendonitis is not risk-free. Potential complications include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Chronic or recurring tendonitis
• Growth of scar tissue
• Persistent pain in the ankle
   

It is essential to discuss all possible complications with your doctor prior to receiving treatment.
 

What to Expect After Peroneal Tendonitis Treatment?

With treatment, most patients fully recover from peroneal tendonitis. The recovery process varies, though. According to the NHS (National Health Service), symptoms often improve within three months when patients follow professional medical guidance. In some cases, complete recovery might take up to a year.

It is normal to have flare-ups occasionally while recovering. If pain increases or persists even after treatment, an individual must approach a healthcare provider. They may recommend other stretches, exercises, or therapy changes for a better result.

Delayed treatment leads to tendon tears and can further lead to severe conditions. Early detection and treatment are of the most significant importance to avoid complications in the long run. Apart from this, having a health insurance policy can be a determining factor in safeguarding finances against unforeseen health emergencies.

At Star Health, we offer comprehensive coverage for various diseases and treatments under our general insurance plans. With benefits like cashless claims and hassle-free treatment available at over 14,000+ network hospitals across India, policyholders can face medical challenges with financial security and peace of mind.

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