POST TIB TENDINOPATHY
What is Post-Tib Tendonitis?
Post-Tib Tendonitis / Medial ankle pain is a strain placed on the posterior tibial tendon. The posterior tibial tendon runs along the inside of the ankle and the foot. When there is post-tibial tendon disfunction, the tendon does not function to hold up the arch, resulting in flat feet. This can lead to heel pain, arch pain, plantar fasciitis and/or heel spurs. With post-tib tendonitis, pain will be more severe upon weight bearing, especially while walking or running.
Symptoms of Post-Tib Tendonitis
- Pain along the inside of the foot and ankle, where the tendon lies. This may or may not be associated with swelling in the area.
- Pain that is worse with activity. High-intensity or high-impact activities, such as running, can be very difficult. Some patients can have trouble walking or standing for a long time.
- Pain on the outside of the ankle. When the foot collapses, the heel bone may shift to a new position outwards. This can put pressure on the outside ankle bone. The same type of pain is found in arthritis in the back of the foot.
Causes for Post-Tib Tendonitis
Post-Tib Tendonitis occurs when the muscle is overused and the tendon (soft tissue) that connects the muscle to your bone is strained. Years of over-pronation (flat feet) can also lead to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. If you keep overusing the muscle, damage to the tendon builds up and tendonitis develops. At first the pain or swelling may come and go quickly, but eventually the problem may become more permanent.
When to see a podiatrist?
It is important to see your podiatrist before you’re symptoms become worse and your foot becomes swollen and painful. This injury can last years if not teated effectivly.
Treatments for Post-Tib Tendonitis
- Custom Orthotics. To give your arch the support it needs, your podiatrist may provide you with a 3D custom orthotic device that fits into the shoe.
- Physical therapy. Exercises may help rehabilitate the tendon.
- Anti Inflammatories
- Dry needling
- Hands on Treatment
- Heat
Is the Post-Tib Tendonitis treatment covered by Private Health Insurances?
Call us to find out whether your Post – Tib Tendinopathy treatment is covered by your private health care provider. There are a few things to consider with your private health fund such as your level of cover, your policy waiting periods, annual limits and fund rules. It is important to know what you are up for prior to your visits to avoid unwanted, expensive surprises.