Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction Treatment
The posterior tibial tendon connects the calf muscle to the foot, elevating the foot arch and supporting the foot while walking. When the posterior tibial tendon is injured or damaged, it can impact the function of the foot and cause pain. This is one of the most common foot problems, especially for women and those over 40. Our orthopedic foot physicians at DOCS Health offer posterior tibial tendon dysfunction treatment at our medical facility in Los Angeles.
Causes and Symptoms of Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Any tendon can be damaged or torn from injuries or stress. The posterior tibial tendon can suffer injuries and tears from falls or overuse in high impact activities or sports. Other risk factors for damage to the posterior tibial tendon include obesity, diabetes and hypertension. Damage to the posterior tibial tendon can cause the arch of the foot to fall, impacting the foot structure.
Those with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction may experience the following symptoms:
- Swelling along the inside of the lower calf, foot and ankle
- Pain along the inside of the foot and ankle
- Increased pain with high-impact activities
- Arch collapse resulting in outer ankle pain
A simple test to determine if the posterior tibial tendon is causing foot pain is standing on one leg and raising on to the toes, lifting the heel. Those with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction or injuries may not be able to perform this function.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction treatment typically includes conservative methods. Rest, ice, immobilization and anti-inflammatory medications may be used to allow the tendon to heal. Other non-surgical options include physical therapy, braces and customized orthotics. If non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be recommended to repair the tendon or bones.
If you have symptoms of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and want to explore treatment options, contact our orthopedic specialists at DOCS Health. We offer advanced foot treatment options at our medical center in Los Angeles.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.