Post-Tib Tendonitis
Definition
Post-Tib 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 disfunction,
the tendon does not function to hold up the arch, resulting in
flat feet. This can |
 |
| lead to heel pain, arch
pain, plantar fasciitis and/or heel spurs. With post-tib tendonitis,
pain will be more severe upon weight bearing, especially while
walking or running. |
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 can develop. At first the pain or swelling may
come and go quickly, but eventually the problem may become more permanent.
Treatment and Prevention
To treat post-tib tendonitis, you can reduce your symptoms by limiting
activity to control the pain and swelling. Stay off your feet a few
days, then slowly increase your activity. Rest allows the tissues
in your foot to heal.
Conservative treatments (non-surgical treatments)
include wearing a specially designed foot orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal
arch support to reduce strain on the post tibial tendon and prevent
excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The foot orthotic should also
be designed with materials to comfort the foot and absorb shock.
Listed below are tips to prevent Post-Tib Tendonitis
from recurring:
- Wear shoes that provide cushioning, support
and shock absorption.
- Use Foot orthotics with sufficient arch support
that are constructed from shock absorbing, cushioning materials.
Vary exercise routines. The variety will keep
one set of muscles from being under continuous stress.
If the problem persists, give us a call at Ortho-Tech for further treatment options (416) 441-9122.
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