Medicine
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Treat a Torn Peroneus Longus Tendon?

D. Jeffress
D. Jeffress

The peroneus longus tendon is a long band of tissue that connects lower leg muscles to the back of the ankle joint and the bottom of the foot. Along with its counterpart the peroneus brevis, the tendon supports the arch of the foot and stabilizes back and forth movement of the ankle. The peroneus longus is a relatively strong, thick tendon, so injuries resulting in tears are uncommon. If a tear does occur, however, pain, swelling, and loss of mobility can be extensive. A person can usually treat a mild peroneus longus tendon injury at home by keeping weight off the foot, applying ice and taking anti-inflammatory medications. A serious injury may require casting, bracing, physical therapy, and perhaps surgery to repair damage.

A peroneus longus tendon injury typically occurs with a badly sprained ankle. The tendon might be stretched beyond its normal range of motion, resulting in a partial tear. If a person knows that he or she rolled an ankle, it is important to immobilize the joint and keep weight off of the foot. Pain, tenderness, and gradually worsening swelling are common, but symptoms are usually bearable. Severe peroneus longus tendon tears result in sharp, excruciating pains and immediate swelling that need to be addressed at an emergency room.

A doctor may take an x-ray to to diagnose a torn peroneus longus tendon.
A doctor may take an x-ray to to diagnose a torn peroneus longus tendon.

Following a minor injury, an individual should try to rest the foot for several days and avoid wearing tight shoes. Applying ice packs, elevating the leg, and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help to alleviate pain and swelling. Some people also find relief by alternating between ice and heat wraps.

Most mild injuries start feeling better in one to two weeks, but people should be careful about returning to activity right away. Supportive wraps and elastic ankle braces can help prevent re-injuring the tendon or ankle joint. Most doctors suggest performing light stretching exercises after swelling and pain subside to gradually rebuild flexibility.

An injury to the peroneus longus tendon can lead to long-term ankle instability and may cause excessive supination.
An injury to the peroneus longus tendon can lead to long-term ankle instability and may cause excessive supination.

If an injury is bad enough to warrant a trip to the hospital, a person can expect to receive a physical exam and other diagnostic testing such as an x-ray, MRI and/or ultrasound. A doctor tries to gauge the extent of damage to the peroneus longus tendon and surrounding structures. He or she may decide to immobilize the ankle with a plaster cast or soft splint and fit the patient with crutches. Following several weeks of rest and taking medications to relieve pain, the cast can be removed and the patient can begin exercising.

Ankle braces can help prevent re-injuring the peroneus longus tendon and ankle joint.
Ankle braces can help prevent re-injuring the peroneus longus tendon and ankle joint.

Surgery is only needed when the tendon is completely torn. A surgeon may try to reconnect it or replace it with grafted tissue from another tendon in the body. Recovery times can vary, but most patients need to wear casts for about two months and then participate in guided physical therapy to rebuild balance and strength.

Discussion Comments

anon991171

If a tendon is torn, it cannot be seen with an x-ray. A torn tendon is usually diagnosed with a physical exam and an MRI. Some tears can be difficult to see even in an MRI. A doctor may also request an x-ray for a torn tendon if he/she suspects that there may be an issue in the surrounding joints and bones. So the kind of test requested by the doctor for this type of injury can vary. If there are any worries or questions, it's always a good idea to ask the doctor directly about why a specific test was requested.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A doctor may take an x-ray to to diagnose a torn peroneus longus tendon.
      By: andreaxt
      A doctor may take an x-ray to to diagnose a torn peroneus longus tendon.
    • An injury to the peroneus longus tendon can lead to long-term ankle instability and may cause excessive supination.
      By: GVictoria
      An injury to the peroneus longus tendon can lead to long-term ankle instability and may cause excessive supination.
    • Ankle braces can help prevent re-injuring the peroneus longus tendon and ankle joint.
      By: Kamil Ćwiklewski
      Ankle braces can help prevent re-injuring the peroneus longus tendon and ankle joint.
    • A serious injury to the peroneus longus tendon may require physical therapy.
      By: alfpok
      A serious injury to the peroneus longus tendon may require physical therapy.
    • A patient may need to use crutches while recovering from a torn tendon.
      By: Alison Bowden
      A patient may need to use crutches while recovering from a torn tendon.
    • A severe tear of the peroneus longus tendon causing excruciating pain should be addressed immediately at an emergency room.
      By: Stephen Finn
      A severe tear of the peroneus longus tendon causing excruciating pain should be addressed immediately at an emergency room.
    • A doctor can suggest ways to improve flexibility and movement after the swelling has gone down from a torn peroneus longus tendon.
      By: spotmatikphoto
      A doctor can suggest ways to improve flexibility and movement after the swelling has gone down from a torn peroneus longus tendon.