Tendon Disorders of the Foot and Ankle

Attritional and traumatic injuries to the tendons around the foot and ankle are not uncommon. Treatment of overuse-type injuries (tendinitis) remains straightforward. However, surgical treatment of peroneal subluxation, Achilles tendon ruptures, and posterior tibial tendon insufficiency remains somewhat controversial. Generally speaking, soft-tissue reconstruction of the superior peroneal retinaculum is superior to bony procedures for peroneal dislocation. Open repair of a torn Achilles tendon is more predictable than closed treatment. Good clinical judgment is needed in determining the best treatment for posterior tibial tendon problems. The painful os peroneum syndrome is a newly described spectrum of posttraumatic conditions that may be the cause of lateral foot pain, which is frequently difficult to identify.