If you are experiencing pain or swelling on the inner side of the ankle joint that has progressively worsened and/or you have noticed a change to the shape of your foot, for example you note that is has become flatter over time, you may have a condition called posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction is a condition that affects the main supporting tendon of the arch of the foot. This condition causes a progressive and degenerative change to the structure of the tendon. While this condition is most common in middle aged woman, it can also occur in men.
Without treatment of this condition, there can be a complete collapse of the arch and the development of osteoarthritis in the joints of the feet. We call this an ‘acquired flat foot’.
This condition can occur due to a combination of long-term overuse of the tendon or sudden injuries to the tendon and age-related change.
The treatment of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction requires a combination of targeted exercises to rehabilitate the tendon and orthotic therapy to support the tendon in its job to hold up the arch of the foot. Orthotic therapy is an important part in both aiding recovery and preventing progression of this condition in the long term.
Tendons have relatively poor blood supply and thus can take up to 12 weeks or longer to heal, but with persistence you can limit the progression of this condition and eliminate it all together.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, do not hesitate to book a consultation with Ettalong Podiatry for an assessment and advice.