The tendons that run along the outside of a foot are commonly the source of pain and problems, according to McLeod Orthopedic Specialist Dr. Ross Taylor.
Here are the major points of Dr. Taylor’s commentary:
The peroneal tendons are a common source of ankle pain. The peroneal tendons are two cord-like structures that run around the outside part of the ankle. They’re tendons, connecting muscle to bone. Ankle sprain is an injury to what we call the static stabilizers of the ankle joint. Those are ligaments that hold the ankle in place. However, the peroneal tendons perform a stabilizing effect as well.
If you turn your ankle hard enough, you can injure the peroneal tendons. You‘ll feel pain around the outside of your ankle. It can be very difficult to determine whether it’s an ankle sprain, a fracture or a tendon injury without seeing a physician to examine it more closely. Peroneal tendon injuries can become a chronic problem, if not treated. They can occur as a result of overuse. A patient typically experiences aching pain, perhaps during walking or after exercise, around the outside part of the ankle. It can become swollen. Peroneal tendon problems are usually treated conservatively. Always see your physician if you’re in pain or you think you have had an injury. Most problems about the foot and ankle can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and, if needed, surgery. So, see your emergency room physician, your family doctor, or orthopedic surgeon with foot and ankle training.
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