Peroneal tendons

These tendons play a crucial role in the movement and stability of the foot and ankle.

Peroneal tendons, also known as fibular tendons, are two tendons that are situated on the outer side of the lower leg. They originate from the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles and run down the side of the fibula, attaching to various structures in the foot. These tendons are integral to foot mobility and help maintain the proper alignment of the ankle.

Terminologia Anatomica

tendo-peroneus

System

Muscular system

Function

The primary roles of the peroneal tendons are to provide stability and support during various activities, such as walking, running, and jumping. They facilitate the ever-important eversion of the foot, which is the action of turning the sole outward. This action is crucial for maintaining balance and adapting to uneven surfaces, thus reducing the risk of ankle sprains. Additionally, the peroneal tendons assist in controlling lateral motion, which helps protect the ankle joint from excessive stress and injury. By anchoring the foot to the leg, they contribute to effective force transmission during movement, enhancing performance in athletic activities.

Location

The peroneal tendons are located along the lateral aspect of the lower leg, originating from the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles. The peroneus longus tendon runs along the outer side of the calf, loops around the lateral malleolus (the bony prominence on the outer ankle), and then travels beneath the foot to attach to the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform bones. In contrast, the peroneus brevis tendon also encircles the lateral malleolus but extends to insert on the fifth metatarsal bone. This anatomical arrangement places them in a strategic position to support the ankle and foot during movement, making them fundamental to locomotion.

Did You Know?

Injury to the peroneal tendons is relatively common among athletes, especially those participating in sports that require lateral movement.
The peroneal tendons are frequently involved in overuse injuries related to running due to their role in stabilizing the foot.
Anatomical variations can occur, such as the presence of an accessory peroneus quartus muscle, which can sometimes complicate tendon assessments.