Footnotes / Blog
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is one of the most common problems of the foot and ankle.It is when the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed or torn. As a result, the tendon may not be able to provide stability and support for the arch of the foot, resulting in flatfoot.
The posterior tibial tendon originates in from a muscle in the lower leg and courses behind the inside of the ankle inserting on the bottom of the arch.
Symptoms
- pain around the inside of the foot and ankle
- swelling, warmth, and/or redness along the inside of the foot and ankle.
- pain that worsens with activity.
- flattening of the foot.
- inward rolling of the ankle.
- turning out of the toes and foot.
Causes/Risk Factors
- High impact sports such as running
- Being obesity/overweight
- Diabetes
- Being female
- Non-supportive shoegear
- Enlarged “navicular” bone
Treatment
Most patients can be treated without surgery, using orthotics and braces. If this conservative treatment does not provide relief, surgery would be warranted.
Surgical intervention may only involve removing the inflamed tissue or repairing a simple tear. However, more often than not, surgery is very involved, and many patients will notice some limitation in activity after surgery.
If you are suffering from foot or ankle pain, visit Innovative Foot and Ankle. Our doctors are all well trained in conservative and surgical treatment of disorders of the lower extremities. We have locations throughout northern New Jersey in Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry and Montclair.