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Nov 16, 2007 - Post-Tibial TendinitisBack
POST-TIBIAL TENDINITIS
Definition:
Post-Tibial Tendonitis is a strain placed on the posterior tibial tendon. The posterior tibial tendon runs along the inside of the ankle and the foot. When there is post-tibial tendon dysfunction, the tendon does not hold up the arch, resulting in flat feet. This is the most common cause of acquire adult flat foot.
Pain is usually in the arch area and follows the course of the tendon on the inner side of the foot backwards up and behind the inner ankle bone and into the leg. Pain will be more severe upon weight bearing, especially while walking or running. The pain can also mimic symptoms associated with heel pain (plantar fascitis) and tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Cause:
Post-Tib Tendonitis occurs when the muscle is overused and the tendon (soft tissue) that connects the muscle to your bone is strained. Years of over-pronation can also lead to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. If you keep overusing the muscle, damage to the tendon builds up and tendonitis develops. At first the pain or swelling may come and go quickly, but eventually the problem may become more permanent.
Once the condition becomes established the pain can be extreme, a lowering or flattening of the arch may occur and activity levels are restricted. If left untreated the condition may result in rupture of the tendon resulting in disabling deformity, which may require major surgical correction.
Treatment & Prevention:
Early treatment to reduce your symptoms can be achieved by limiting activity to control the pain and swelling. Staying off your feet a few days, then slowly increase your activity. Vary exercise routines. The variety will keep one set of muscles from being under continuous stress. Rest allows the tissues in your foot to heal. If this is not adequate then conservative (non-surgical treatments) treatments may need to be considered. Conservative treatments include use of prescription foot orthotics which controls foot motion to reduce strain on the post tibial tendon and prevent excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The orthotic should also be designed with materials to comfort the foot and absorb shock. A specific stretching and strengthening program and can also be of great help. If left untreated you may require surgery, which may involve major surgical reconstruction of your foot. To avoid this it is best to seek professional care as soon as the symptoms begin.
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