Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) Tendinitis

Tendinitis of the flexor hallucis longus is an unusual source of ankle pain, but it is frequently seen in ballet dancers. Typically ballet dancers will complain of pain in the posterior aspect of the ankle.

A sports medicine physician can often make this diagnosis by palpating the flexor hallucis longus tendon as it passes behind the medial malleolus just inside the Achilles tendon. Often motion of the big toe can also reproduce the athlete’s pain. X-rays are often unremarkable, but they can show a large bony process called the os trigonum. An MRI scan can show inflammation of the flexor hallucis longus tendon.

Typically the treatment is nonsurgical, emphasizing stretching, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and even a night splint. Often rest from dancing and immobilizing the tendon are adequate to alleviate symptoms. Occasionally intractable pain in dancers can require surgical treatment.

If you have specific questions about flexor hallucis longus tendinitis, please Ask Dr. Geier directly or Schedule an Appointment.

Other Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles Tendon Ruptures
Ankle Impingement
Ankle Fractures
Ankle Sprains
Calcaneus Stress Fractures
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Fifth Metatarsal Fracture (Jones fracture)
Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) Tendinitis
Hallux Rigidus
Lateral Ankle Instability
Lisfranc Injuries
Metatarsal Stress Fracture
Navicular Stress Fracture
Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Peroneal Tendon Subluxation
Plantar Fasciitis
Sever’s Disease
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Syndesmosis Injuries (“High Ankle Sprains”)
Tibia Fracture
Tibial Stress Fracture
Turf Toe