Peroneal Tendonitis an Overuse Injury

I have pain in the outer portion of my foot. I have done my own novice diagnosis and think that it may be peroneal tendonitis. I have been training for a marathon since January 1 outside, in Michigan, therefore running over very uneven surfaces. I went to a "run clinic" at a local store and a physician prescribed inserts because I "over-pronate." The inserts provide support and ease the pain a little bit... but it still hurts. I was just wondering if there was anything I could do to get back from this injury faster. I have the marathon on April 1 and have completed most of my training. I would REALLY like to run in it. Anything I can do?

Dr. Johnny L. Lin:

Peroneal tendonitis is common in athletes. It is usually the result of overuse, but can also be the result of an acute injury. The inflammation around the tendon is the source of pain. Sometimes the structure of the foot can contribute to the disorder, but over-pronation is an uncommon cause. It sounds like your problem is due to overuse.

Signs and symptoms of peroneal tendonitis include pain to the touch and when active, swelling, and even warmth to the touch. A key sign of a more severe injury and possible tear to the peroneal tendons includes loss of stability and weakness in the foot and ankle (walking becomes difficult). This type of injury usually occurs in orthopaedic trauma cases.

Treatment Options:

Unfortunately, rest is usually the key to getting better (which is difficult if you are trying to train for a marathon). Using a stationary bike for training for a short period of time (2-3 weeks) may be a good way to train and rest the foot at the same time. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories and ice are also helpful. If your condition does improve with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatories over a 3-4 week period, then you may have to rest your foot completely and have it evaluated by a physician. You may be suffering from a small tear in the tendon or from a related problem.

For more information about Dr. Lin and the Sports Medicine physicians of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, call 877 MD BONES or contact us through this Web site.

This information is not intended as a substitute for the professional advice of your physician, nor to be a complete description of every aspect of a condition, nor a complete list of possible side effects of any medication. Decisions concerning your treatment should be based on your own health care provider's evaluation of your personal health history and current condition. Consult your physician before following any of the suggestions on this Web site. All articles on this Web site represent the personal opinions of the individual authors and should not be construed as official policy of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.