Jan 10th, 2014
Tom asked The Guru for the following Physiotherapy Advice:
Following a diagnosis of peroneal tendinopathy, I have been told that I have a tight calf and positive anterior drawer test indicative of ankle instability. I have pain on the outside of my foot when walking and haven’t been able to run for 2 months now.
What should I do next? Would physio on the tight calf and ankle strengthening work alleviate the symptoms/correct the biomechanical issues?
Jan 10th, 2014
Hi Tom
Physio [sport physiotherapy] is absolutely the way forward.
Having a positive drawer test means that you’ve sprained (to whatever degree) your ATF ligament in your ankle. Either by going over on it, or by having poor mechanics over a long period.
Your peroneal muscles overwork and overstretch in an attempt to stabilise your ankle – hence the tendinopathy.
Your calf may well adapt and shorten, as you increase the length of the peronei. Add to one, take from another type thing.
You need to get ankle stability – correct shoes, maybe orthotics and good pelvis and lower limb balance, control and finally strength.
Have a look at your single knee squat left versus right. There’ll most likely be a difference (more wobbly, less control, more rolling in) and until this is corrected and controlled, running (SKS is a vital component part) is off the menu.
