Peroneal tendinopathy refers to irritation, inflammation, or degeneration of the peroneal tendons, which run along the outer part of the ankle and foot. These tendons—peroneus longus and peroneus brevis—play a key role in stabilizing the ankle and supporting the arch during walking and running.
When overloaded, these tendons can become painful and dysfunctional, especially in active individuals, patients with flat feet, or those recovering from ankle sprains.
Common Symptoms
- Pain or soreness on the outside of the ankle or foot
- Swelling or tenderness behind the fibula
- Pain that increases with walking, running, or uneven terrain
- Weakness or instability during side-to-side motion
- A sensation of snapping or clicking near the outer ankle
Why Does Peroneal Tendinopathy Occur?
At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we use the Tissue Stress Model to understand and treat tendon issues like this. In nearly all cases, tendinopathy occurs because the tendon is being asked to do more work than it can currently tolerate.
Common contributors include:
- Ankle instability or history of sprains
- Overpronation or flatfoot deformity
- Sudden increases in training intensity or surface changes
- Poor footwear or lack of support
- Tight calf musculature or weak foot stabilizers
Diagnosis: How We Confirm It
Diagnosis involves:
- Detailed clinical history and physical exam
- Palpation and resistance testing of the peroneal tendons
- Gait and foot posture assessment
- In-office ultrasound (real-time imaging to assess tendon integrity)
- MRI (if deeper pathology or tear is suspected)
Treatment for Peroneal Tendinopathy in Tampa
Our treatment plan is guided by tissue condition, activity level, and the demands of your lifestyle. We focus on reducing stress, improving mechanics, and restoring tendon strength.
✅ Initial Offloading & Support:
- Ankle bracing or lateral wedge inserts
- Custom orthotics to support the arch and unload the peroneals
- Shoe recommendations tailored for lateral stability
✅ Inflammation & Pain Reduction:
- MLS laser therapy for inflammation and recovery
- Ice, NSAIDs, and short-term activity modification
- Immobilization boot (for acute flares or moderate tendon damage)
✅ Strengthening & Rehab:
- Progressive peroneal tendon loading exercises
- Balance and proprioception retraining
- Glute, calf, and intrinsic foot muscle strengthening
✅ Advanced Regenerative Options:
- Shockwave therapy for chronic tendinosis
- Wharton’s Jelly injection (if conservative care fails or tendon degeneration is present)
✅ Surgical Referral (If Needed):
- Reserved for confirmed tears, severe instability, or failed non-operative care
When to Seek Treatment
Pain or instability on the outer ankle that doesn’t improve in 1–2 weeks should be professionally evaluated—especially if you’ve had recurring sprains or your pain worsens with activity.
Restore Stability. Rebuild Confidence.
At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tendon conditions like peroneal tendinopathy using precision offloading, regenerative tools, and personalized rehab plans.
👉 Dealing with persistent lateral ankle pain? Book your evaluation today and we’ll help you get back to confident, pain-free movement.
Bayshore Podiatry Center — Tampa’s Foot & Ankle Experts in Tendon Injury Recovery and Biomechanical Support
