Tendon problems of the foot and ankle. The spectrum from peritendinitis to rupture

Inflammatory processes and ruptures involving the tendons of the foot and ankle are more common than is generally believed. The Achilles and posterior tibial tendons are most commonly involved. Less often, the site of dysfunction is the peroneal tendons. Rupture of the Achilles tendon and dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon should be readily diagnosed because the history, symptoms, and signs are characteristic. Rupture of the peroneal tendons is rare, and dislocation cannot be diagnosed with certainty unless it is seen promptly or can be reproduced on examination. Treatment of any of these conditions may be operative or nonoperative.