Physiotherapy for Peroneal Tendonitis: Causes, Benefits, Exercises, and Prevention

What Is Peroneal Tendonitis?

A rugged cord-like structure that links the peroneal muscles in the calf to the foot bones is called peroneal tendons. The inflammation of the peroneal tendons is said to be peroneal tendonitis. The inflammation occurs when the tendon gets damaged by microtears which can also cause pain and difficulty in walking. Peroneal tendonitis is the most common cause of pain and immobility in the outside and back of the foot. The person with peroneal tendonitis may also experience ankle instability and pop.

Peroneal tendonitis is treated by the RICE principle which means rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Healthcare professionals may also recommend anti-inflammatory medicines such as Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, etc. It can also be treated with physical therapy and massage therapy for the calf and foot. Physical therapy helps to restore the movement and function of the affected area.

What Are the Causes of Peroneal Tendonitis?

• The inflammation of peroneal muscles is caused by repetitive movements and overuse of the peroneal tendons.

• It can also be caused by acute ankle injury or sprain in the ankle.

• Most common in persons with certain medical conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.

• Obesity can also cause a sprain in the ankle.

• A person with a history of previous injury to the ankle.

What Are the Benefits of Exercises for Peroneal Tendon Inflammation?

Some research has shown that stretching exercises can help to improve the range of motion and elasticity of the calf muscles and foot.

• The stretching exercises and strengthening exercises help to regain the movement lost due to injury.

• The exercises and stretches that work on the peroneal muscles help to strengthen them and reduce the risk of future injuries.

• The controlled stretching of a muscle increases its collage synthesis and improves the organization of the muscle fibers. Improved organization results in stronger tendons and muscles.

• The main goal of stretching exercises is to prevent the problems caused by improper healing, shortening, and adhesions in the tendons.

What Are Peroneal Tendonitis Exercises?

The stretching and strengthening exercises help to regain the strength of the peroneal muscles and aid the peroneal tendonitis. If the person experiences any significant pain during the stretches they are advised to stop the exercises immediately to reduce the risk of further injury. The stretching and strengthening exercises are:

1. Plantar Fascia Stretch -

The instructions are:

• The person should sit straight on a chair with the feet flat on the floor and they need a foam roller or a tennis ball to do the stretch.

• The person should sit on the chair and place the foam roller under one foot.

• Then the person should roll the foot over the object back and forth for about one minute and the exercise should be repeated on the other side.

• And the person should do the stretch two to three times on each leg.

2. Towel Stretch -

The instructions are:

• The person should sit on the floor with both legs extended in front of them with the toes facing upward.

• Then the person should wrap one foot around the towel.

• Then the person should gently pull back their foot until they feel a stretch on the bottom of the foot to the back of the lower leg.

• The person should hold the stretch for 30 to 60 seconds and repeat the exercise on the other foot.

• And the person should do the stretch two to three times on each leg.

3. Standing Calf Stretch -

The instructions are:

• The person should stand in front of the wall or a closed door and place their palms against the wall or door by stepping one step back into a split distance with their palms slightly higher than their shoulder level.

• The person's feet should be flat on the floor and toes facing forward.

• Then the person should slowly lean forward and bend the knee of the front leg to feel the stretch in the back of the lower leg.

• Then the person should hold the stretch for about 30 seconds and the exercise should be repeated on the other side.

• And the person should do the stretch two to three times on each leg.

4. Heel Raise -

The instructions are:

• The person should stand behind the chair or table and hold it for support.

• Then the person should raise their toes and hold the position for about five to 10 seconds.

• And the person should do the exercise five to 10 times.

5. Ankle Flexion -

The instructions are:

• The person should sit upright on the floor extend one leg straight and bend the other leg.

• Then the person should wrap the resistance band around the foot of the extended leg with their toes pointing away from the body.

• Then the person slowly flexes the ankle by pulling the toes with the help of a resistance band toward the shin.

• The person should repeat the exercise 10 times and repeat it on the other side.

6. Eversion and Inversion -

The instructions are:

• The person should sit on a chair and place the injured leg crossed over the knee of the unaffected leg.

• By holding the bottom of the foot with one hand the person should slowly tilt the sole of their foot towards the floor.

• The person should hold the position for five to 10 seconds and pull their foot towards the body by tilting it towards the ceiling.

• The exercises should be repeated 10 times.

What Type of Physical Therapy (PT) Is Used for Peroneal Tendonitis?

Gaining back normal ankle strength, mobility, and function may be possible with physical therapy (PT) for peroneal tendonitis. Following the evaluation of the situation by a therapist, people will start treatment as soon as the therapist has evaluated an individual. The usual treatment objectives for peroneal tendonitis include pain reduction, increased strength and mobility, and better walking and running function.

A physical therapist may offer a variety of therapies to address the peroneal tendonitis. These ought to be customized based on the unique requirements and limitations. Reducing discomfort, enhancing strength and mobility, and enhancing walking and running function are the usual treatment objectives for peroneal tendonitis.

How Is Peroneal Tendonitis Prevented?

The person can prevent peroneal tendonitis by

• Regularly performing stretching exercises for the ankle, calf, and peroneal muscles.

• Maintaining proper form while exercising the calf, peroneal, and ankle muscles.

• Wearing appropriate footwear that supports the ankle.

• The person should gradually increase the intensity of weight-bearing exercises such as jogging, walking, and running.

Conclusion

Peroneal tendonitis occurs when the peroneal muscles get inflamed due to injury or trauma. After the pain in the affected area subsides the physical therapist recommends stretching exercises to strengthen the peroneal muscles. Reaching out to the physical therapist may be beneficial. The exercises should be made routine and done in the proper form.