Peroneal Tendon Injuries
What Are Peroneal Tendon Injuries?
Lateral Ankle Pain from Tendon Irritation or Instability. Peroneal tendon injuries affect the two tendons (peroneus longus and peroneus brevis) that run along the outer side of the ankle and foot. These tendons play a key role in stabilizing the ankle and preventing sprains. Injuries can range from acute tears to chronic tendonitis or tendon subluxation (tendon slipping out of place).
These injuries often develop in athletes involved in cutting, pivoting, or uneven terrain sports — like soccer, basketball, trail running, or snowboarding — but they can also affect anyone with ankle instability or abnormal foot mechanics.
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Causes and Risk Factors
- Repetitive ankle stress or overuse
- Ankle sprains or chronic instability
- High-arched (cavus) foot structure
- Inadequate rehabilitation from previous ankle injuries
- Improper or unsupportive footwear
- Direct trauma or fall onto the outside of the ankle
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness along the outer (lateral) side of the ankle
- Swelling behind or below the fibula
- Feeling of ankle weakness or instability
- A snapping or popping sensation during movement (indicative of tendon subluxation)
- Increased pain with activity, especially on uneven ground or during side-to-side motion
- In some cases, ankle sprain symptoms that don’t resolve with typical care
Diagnosis
- Physical exam including resistance testing and palpation
- Observation for subluxing tendons during ankle movement
- MRI or ultrasound to confirm tears, inflammation, or tendon instability
- X-rays to rule out bone abnormalities or fractures
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Rest, activity modification, and bracing
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to strengthen ankle stabilizers and improve mechanics
- Immobilization in a walking boot for moderate tears or severe inflammation
- Ankle taping or orthotics for foot alignment issues
Surgical Treatment
- Considered for patients with tendon tears, chronic subluxation, or failed conservative management
- Procedures may include tendon repair, debridement, or groove deepening to stabilize the tendons
- Reconstruction techniques used in severe or degenerative cases
Recovery Timeline
Mild to moderate injuries typically recover within 6–8 weeks with conservative care
Surgical recovery may take 3–6 months, depending on the procedure and rehab compliance
Return to sports is gradual and guided by strength, flexibility, and functional testing
Expert Treatment at Kerlan Jobe Institute
Our orthopedic foot and ankle specialists at Kerlan Jobe Institute are experienced in diagnosing and managing complex peroneal tendon injuries. We use advanced imaging, precise clinical evaluation, and tailored rehabilitation programs to restore tendon function and prevent recurrent ankle problems.
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Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
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“Dr. Kvitne operated on my shoulder 3 years ago and I had a perfect recovery and no problems since and I do not see a scar. He is kind with a great bedside manor and a highly skilled surgeon.”
Dr. Kharrazi truly got me back on my feet—literally.
One year ago, I tore several ligaments in my knee, and now I’m able to do the things I enjoy again.
His expertise, knowledge, and confidence are what made me choose him as my surgeon, and I will always be grateful to him and his entire team. Rudy, his assistant; Norma, who was always so prompt with all of my emails; and Blanca, who helped with forms—each of them made a difference. I can’t thank them enough for being there with me every step of the way.
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“My experience with Dr Kvitne was amazing he is a outstanding Doctor what a talented man he is my knee was in such bad shape he did not have much to work with but he got in there and fixed me up there was so much that had to be repaired Dr Kvitne with his knowledge and experience repaired my knee so nicely done I have had knee surgery before but never like this I can’t say enough good things about Dr Kvitne awesome human being as well as a awesome excellent Doctor!!”
Dr. Kharrazi gave me my mobility back
After 2 knee surgeries with other Orthopedics I must say that Dr. Kharrazi is a miracle worker. I have my mobility back and my pain level is so greatly improved. Thanks Dr. K!
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Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.