What to expect from physiotherapy for peroneal tendinopathy

Your physiotherapist asks about the onset of pain, recent changes in walking, running or footwear, and any ankle sprains. They examine tenderness along the outer ankle, swelling, ankle movement, balance, walking pattern and the way the tendons respond to resisted movement. This helps separate tendon irritation from other causes of outer ankle pain.

Treatment may begin with reducing the movements that repeatedly provoke symptoms while keeping comfortable activity. Strength work can progress from gentle ankle eversion and calf exercises to single-leg balance, stepping and more demanding tasks. Your clinician may also discuss footwear, training surfaces and a gradual increase in activity rather than a sudden return.

Complete the home exercises with the prescribed repetitions and pace, and note how the ankle feels later that day and the next morning. Choose supportive footwear and avoid repeatedly pushing through sharp pain. A steady response is more useful than chasing fatigue; tell the physiotherapist if swelling, limping or night pain increases.

Arrange prompt review if the ankle becomes increasingly swollen, bruised or unstable, if you felt a sudden snap, or if you cannot walk normally. Urgent care is appropriate for a misshapen ankle, a cold or numb foot, severe pain after trauma, or sudden calf swelling with breathlessness.

Ask whether your symptoms fit tendon irritation, whether imaging is needed, which activities are suitable now, and what signs should delay your return to running or sport.