Popliteus Tendinitis

Popliteus tendinitis is inflammation in the popliteus tendon, which extends from the outer surface of the bottom of the thighbone (femur) diagonally across the back of the knee to the inner side of the top of the shinbone (tibia).

The popliteus tendon prevents the lower leg from twisting outward during running. Excessive rolling of the feet onto the outside (pronation), as well as running downhill, tends to put excessive stress on this tendon, which can tear it.

Pain and soreness, particularly when running downhill, develop along the outside of the knee. A person should not run until the area is free of pain and should not run downhill for at least 3 weeks after resuming running. Bicycling is a good alternative exercise during healing. Shoe inserts, especially a triangular wedge (varus wedge) placed in front of the heel, can help keep the foot from rolling inward.