The peroneal longus is a muscle that connects the bones of the foot to the calf bone. This muscles function as a supporter of the arches of the foot and is involved in moving the foot downwards (plantarflexion) and outwards (eversion).
Because of its long course, function and superficial anatomical placement the tendon of the peroneal longus is frequently injured. The injury could occur acutely or come about as a result of a long, chronic process. Peroneal tendon injuries are common in athletes that overuse their muscles and perform repetitive actions of the ankle.
The most common peroneal tendon injuries are tears, subluxation and inflammation (tendonitis).
Treatment for Peroneal Tendon Injuries
If you have pain or swelling around the ankle, it’s important to get checked by a qualified doctor. After a full assessment of your condition and an X-ray of the joint, a proper treatment plan can be started.
Peroneal tendon injuries are conservatively managed through bed rest, casting and splinting. Anti-inflammatory medicines for tendonitis could also be prescribed. Patients with a torn or sublaxated peroneal tendon also find an improvement of symptoms through physiotherapy.
Surgery for Peroneal Tendon Injuries
If the symptoms of the injury persist and fail to respond to conservative treatment, surgery might be required. A tear of the peroneal tendon is surgically reconstructed to improve mobility.
Modern advancements in medicines have now introduced keyhole surgery for the repair of tears and tendonitis. This surgery is a minimally-invasive surgery which leaves behind a small scar. With proper post-op care, recovery is swift.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy in tendoscopic therapy is also a surgical option used to correct tears and inflammation of the peroneal tendon.
