One of the most common dysfunctions to occur in the ankle/foot amongst both athletes and non-athletes is called posterior tibial tendonitis. The tibialis posterior is a muscle that starts from the back of the tibia (or shin bone). The tendon then runs down the inside of the leg and ankle, attaching on the inside of the foot near your arch. This tendon plays a crucial role in providing stability to the foot/ankle and supporting the arch of the foot with weight-bearing activities. Injury to the posterior tibial tendon can occur from trauma, like a fall. However, very commonly, overuse injuries occur from repetitive activities like walking, running, and jumping, causing pain and inflammation in the tendon. Classic symptoms of posterior tibial tendonitis include pain along the medial aspect of the ankle/foot, swelling, decreased range of motion, and sometimes instability in the foot/ankle. Because of the vital role the posterior tibial tendon plays in providing arch support, as the tendonitis progresses, the arch in the foot may flatten, changing the position of your foot and causing stress and strain in other areas of your ankle and foot as well.
Depending on the severity of dysfunction to the tendon, conservative treatment can be very successful in decreasing symptoms of posterior tibial tendonitis. This may include a regiment of rest, ice, compression, and possibly NSAIDS. Physical therapy can also be very beneficial to help improve range of motion, flexibility, and stability in the foot/ankle. Exercises to help stabilize the core and hip/pelvis may also be useful to improve overall mechanics of foot and ankle and prevent future injuries. In addition, orthotics may help to provide better arch support to decrease symptoms and prevent future injury as well.
If you have any questions about posterior tibial tendonitis or would like additional information, please contact us at ProActive Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine.
Reference
Weatherford, Brian M. Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org. Reviewed September 2017. Accessed January 26, 2019.