Posterior tibial tendinitis digital illustration

Posterior tibial tendinitis Save


ICD-10 code: M76.82

Chapter: Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue

Understanding Posterior Tibial Tendinitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Posterior tibial tendinitis is a condition that affects the posterior tibial tendon, which runs along the inside of the ankle and foot. This tendon is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot and helping to maintain balance when walking or standing.

When the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed or irritated, it can cause pain and discomfort in the ankle and foot. This condition is known as posterior tibial tendinitis.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of posterior tibial tendinitis is pain on the inside of the ankle or foot. This pain may be worse when standing, walking, or running. Other symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, and stiffness in the affected area.

Causes

Posterior tibial tendinitis can be caused by a number of factors, including overuse, injury, or structural problems in the foot or ankle. People who participate in activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet, such as running or dancing, are at a higher risk for developing this condition.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of posterior tibial tendinitis include obesity, flat feet, high arches, and tight calf muscles.

Treatment

Treatment for posterior tibial tendinitis typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a severely damaged tendon.

Rest is important for allowing the tendon to heal and reducing inflammation. Physical therapy can help to strengthen the affected area and improve flexibility. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help to reduce pain and swelling.

In addition to these treatments, wearing supportive shoes or inserts can help to reduce stress on the foot and ankle. In some cases, custom orthotics may be necessary to correct structural problems in the foot.

  1. Rest
  2. Physical therapy
  3. Medication
  4. Supportive shoes or inserts
  5. Custom orthotics
Conclusion

Posterior tibial tendinitis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with proper treatment, most people are able to recover fully. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your ankle or foot, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.