The tibialis posterior tendon connects calf muscles to the midfoot and supports the foot’s arch. Inflammation of the tendon, known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, can cause pain, swelling, and flattening of the arch. Prevention through stretching and exercise is key, and physical therapy may be necessary for proper healing.
The tibialis posterior tendon is a cable-like bundle of flexible tissue located in the back or back of the leg responsible for connecting the calf muscles to the bones in the midfoot by wrapping around the ankle. This tendon helps provide support to the arch of the foot and stabilizes the foot as it moves away from the toes to swing the leg forward when walking. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, also known as PTTD, is when there is inflammation that causes swelling, tenderness, and pain in this important tendon. You may also experience difficulty walking or moving your foot when this area is inflamed.
Injuries, overuse syndromes, or certain medical disorders such as degenerative joint disease, also known as arthritis, can cause inflammation – the body’s protective response – which can irritate the tendon in the calf area, resulting in posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction . In addition to tendon tenderness and pain with movement, this condition can cause flattening of the arch of the foot and inward rolling of the ankle. Left untreated, problems associated with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction usually get progressively worse. Over time, the joint or connection between the bones and the muscle will begin to deteriorate and cause a permanent change to the structure of the foot.
The most important treatment protocol of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is prevention. Because common activities, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs, especially when this tendon is not properly stretched and conditioned, can cause or prolong symptoms, it is important to follow a regular program of stretching and exercise to maintain optimal tibial tendon length. back and strength. If posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction occurs, it is recommended that you temporarily stop aggravating movements or activities to allow the tendon to heal.
Once the initial pain and swelling of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction has dissipated, a slow return to activities, starting with improving tendon flexibility through range-of-motion exercises and stretching, should help avoid future injury. Strengthening the surrounding areas, including the calf and shin muscles, will provide support to the tibialis posterior tendon and also help prevent irritation of the area. Activity-related movement-specific strengthening should be added to ensure that this tendon has the ability to handle the intense movements that may be required to perform at an optimal athletic level. To ensure proper healing and rehabilitation, a physical therapist-directed treatment protocol may be necessary for a few weeks after a posterior tibial tendon injury.
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