Posterior tibial tendonitis affects the inner ankle and foot area and can be quite painful.
When the posterior tibial tendon ruptures or becomes inflamed, you will experience this condition.
You will certainly realize you have this condition because your gait will be unsteady, but the most obvious sign can be severe foot and ankle pain.
Symptoms of Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
The following symptoms may be present:
The inner foot and ankle will be experiencing pain.
The inside of the foot will be quite tender and swelling will likely be present.
It will be quite painful when you lean on the affected foot or attempt to get up and put weight on it.
When pointing your toes inward, you are likely to experience pain.
You may need to go to your doctor, if you are experiencing these symptoms and an MRI may be necessary to determine the extent of the damage. In addition, it can help to determine whether surgery might be necessary.
Treatment Options of Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
Resting the foot is the first step for treatment of this injury and taking ibuprofen or some other anti-inflammatory drug may be necessary to relieve the pain.
Avoid the urge to work the muscle because rest is the best option. You can try the following ways to accomplish this goal, when going about your daily activities:
Do not attempt to run or participate in strenuous activity because these activities should be limited.
Placing foam pads and inserts in your shoes can be helpful. See the running insoles-page.
Walking boots can be specially fitted.
A short leg cast may be worn.
The inflammation surrounding the posterior tibial tendon should subside when a rigid base decreases movement, so consider boots, inserts or a short leg cast.
The best way to rest the tendon is through the use of a short cast, but some people find it too restricting and opt for inserts or boots, instead.
It is possible that surgery may be necessary in severe injury cases and there are different types of surgery possible.
The condition of the posterior tibial tendon can determine the type of surgical procedure, which can range from cleaning up the tendon to full scale replacement of the tendon including bony reconstruction.
As you can see, the severity of the condition can determine the best course of treatment.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, a trip to the doctor can determine the extent of the injury.
Whether an MRI scan is necessary or not, your doctor will know the best course of action for your feet.
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