The posterior tibial tendon is one of the most important tendons in the leg and foot. It connects a muscle which is in your calf to a bone on the inner part of the foot by the arch. The function of the tendon is to hold up your arch and provide support to the foot when walking
Degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon, known medically as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), can results in loss of function to the tendon, which subsequently causes the arch of the foot to flatten. Another name for PTTD is adult acquired flatfoot, because it is the most common cause of flatfoot in adulthood. This deformity can happen in one foot or both feet. This deformity is progressive, meaning it does worsen overtime unless it is corrected
Causes:
Overuse with improper footwear is the most common cause of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.
Symptoms
Initial characteristic of PTTD is pain and swelling to the inside of the foot. As the dysfunction progresses, the arch flattens and there is inward rolling of the ankle. In more advanced cases, arthritis of the foot and ankle ensues.
Nonsurgical management:
Treatment depends on the stage of the deformity, although generally treatment consist of:
If non-surgical treatment fails to relieve the symptoms, surgery may be considered.
Degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon, known medically as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), can results in loss of function to the tendon, which subsequently causes the arch of the foot to flatten. Another name for PTTD is adult acquired flatfoot, because it is the most common cause of flatfoot in adulthood. This deformity can happen in one foot or both feet. This deformity is progressive, meaning it does worsen overtime unless it is corrected
Causes:
Overuse with improper footwear is the most common cause of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.
Symptoms
Initial characteristic of PTTD is pain and swelling to the inside of the foot. As the dysfunction progresses, the arch flattens and there is inward rolling of the ankle. In more advanced cases, arthritis of the foot and ankle ensues.
Nonsurgical management:
Treatment depends on the stage of the deformity, although generally treatment consist of:
- Immobilization
- Medications: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. In some cases, oral steroids may be used.
- Physical therapy
- Orthotics/Inserts/bracing
- Rest: switching to another activity that isn’t as high impact on the foot
- Shoe modification: more supportive
If non-surgical treatment fails to relieve the symptoms, surgery may be considered.