The three peroneal muscles are located along the outer lower leg and their tendons course down along the outer ankle into the foot. These muscles include the peroneus longus, peroneus brevis and peroneus tertius.
The peroneals have several functions including ankle eversion (turning the foot outward), plantar flexion (pointing the foot downward) and dorsiflexion (pulling the foot upwards towards the shin). Peroneal tendinitis commonly results from overuse and presents with pain along the outer ankle.
Treatment includes modifying activity, or possibly rest in severe cases, ice and other modalities, tape support and possibly correcting arch abnormalities through the use of arch supports or orthotics.