Bicycling optimally requires the full use of tendons in your ankle joint. These tendons facilitate the joint's movement, allowing the foot to rotate inward or outward and point its toes. Tendonitis, or an inflammation of the tendons, can occur because of improper pedal alignment or structure, improper pedaling technique and overuse. Pain, decreased mobility and swelling can result. Consult your doctor if you suspect you have tendonitis in your ankle.
Ankle Tendons
Three main tendons power your ankle joint: the tibialis posterior, the peroneal tendon and the Achilles. The peroneal tendon consists of two tendons, the peroneal longus and peroneal brevis. The Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, attaches to your heel, and works to point your toes down. In addition to pointing the toes, the tibialis posterior, which is situated around the inner ankle bone, also inverts your foot, turning your ankle toward the ground. Your peroneal tendons run around the outer ankle bone, attaching to the top and outside of the foot. Activating these tendons leads to more toe pointing and eversion of the foot -- moving the inner ankle bone toward the ground.
Possible Cycling Injuries
Ankle pain from cycling often stems from unnecessary ankle movement. Typically, your foot is stationary on its pedal; little side-to-side movement occurs. However, a bent pedal or pedal crank, which attaches the pedal to the bike, can cause the ankle to move outward or inward. If your shoes attach to the pedals with clips, and these clips are loose, your ankles can move excessively while pedaling. Pressing down on the pedal with your heels raised is improper form, and can stress the Achilles tendon. Bicycling with any of these abnormalities places undo stress on the ankle joint, leading to overuse injuries.
Ankle Tendonitis
Tendonitis is your body's natural reaction to injury in a tendon. Overuse or improper use of a tendon can lead to its degredation, where tiny tears occur in its fibers. Tears are typically in the belly, or middle, of a tendon, as well as the insertion point, which is where they attach to bones. Ankle tendonitis can occur in cyclists, particularly when the ankle moves incorrectly for prolonged periods. Pain might manifest when you first begin pedaling, gradually worsening as you continue your ride. Hills can exacerbate pain because you are required to pedal harder or even stand up in your pedals.
Treatment and Prevention
Rest, ice and gentle stretching are part of a tendonitis treatment plan. Your doctor might also recommend anti-inflammatory medications, and he might also suggest wrapping or taping your ankle to prevent further damage. Take your bike to a professional mechanic to check your pedal structure and your pedaling form. She can fix bent cranks or recommend new parts to alleviate any ankle rocking. She can also check the fit of the clips that attach your feet to your pedals, tightening them if they are loose or adjusting their release angle to alleviate ankle stress.
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