Dislocation of the peroneal tendons

What are the Peroneal Tendons?

The peroneal tendon runs behind the lateral malleolus or the bony bit on the outside of the ankle (video). If the tissue that holds the tendons in place is torn by turning the ankle over (ankle sprain) then the tendons can slip forward over the malleolus.

Repeated dislocations can result in inflammation. The injury is common in athletes with unstable ankles. Often a contributing factor to this is tension in the muscle belly of Peroneal tendon. Deep tissue massage is an excellent way of identifying and releasing this.

What are the symptoms of this injury?

• Pain when you turn the soles of the feet outwards and upwards (pronation).
• Pain or tenderness behind the lateral malleolus (bony bit on the outside of the ankle).
• Swelling and bruising.

What can the athlete do?

• Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate (R.I.C.E.)
• Gentle stretching when the inflammation has gone.
• Learn how sports massage techniques are applied to release tension in the peroneal muscle.
• See a sports injury professional who can advise on rehabilitation and treatment.

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• Apply sports massage techniques to reduce tension in the peroneal muscle.
• Apply a plaster cast for 3 to 4 weeks if the injury is fairly recent.
• Operate if it is bad. They will need to mend the tissue that holds the tendon in place.