Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Posterior tibial tendon is an extension of the tibialis posterior muscle. This muscle runs down from the back of the lower leg under the ankle bone and attaches to the navicular bone or other bones in the middle of the foot. Posterior Tibial tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)??is a direct injury or micro trauma to the posterior tibial tendon or muscle which causes pain and difficulty in walking.

Causes of PTTD:

PTTD is caused due to excessive usage of the Posterial tibial tendon which involves too much stair climbing, hiking, walking and running. Other causes include diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, fracture, Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, steroid injections etc.

Symptoms of PTTD:

Symptoms of PTTD are mid-foot tenderness during some activity, arch collapse, flat foot on the affected side, pain and swelling in inside the ankle, ankle and foot weakness, inability to stand on the toes and pain that gradually develops in the outer side of the ankle and foot.

Treatment Procedures for PTTD:

  • Some conservative methods like ice, compression, protection, rest, elevation may be helpful in treating PTTD.
  • A doctor might perform taping procedures to allow your posterior tibial tendon to rest and recover.
  • Toe spacing appliances may be beneficial.
  • Usage of a short leg cast or boot can relieve your feet.
  • Ultrasound therapy may be given.
  • Exercises might be given to heal the affected tendon.
  • Appropriate footwear must be used to help reduce chances of recurrence.
  • Surgical options include Tendon transfer, Osteotomy, Tenosynovectomy and lateral column lengthening.
  • Steroid preparations such as dexamethasone can be applied locally or might be used in conjunction with iontophoresis where in electric current is used to make the body absorb tropical medicines.

Seek immediate attention when you find symptoms of PTTD so that you do not exceed the possibilities of treating PTTD.