Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
The posterior tibial tendon runs behind the ankle and is essential to its stability. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction involves progressive inflammation that can cause microtears and may eventually lead to rupture. This condition may be degenerative, such as with aging of a congenital flat foot or poor-quality footwear, or traumatic, such as following an ankle or malleolus injury.
At Laboratoire Orthopédique, approximately 10% of our patients have posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. For years, we have developed effective solutions adapted to relieving their symptoms in everyday life.
Causes and people at risk
Degenerative injury
Genetic predisposition accounts for most cases of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Flat feet place excessive strain on the tendon and increase the risk of this condition, often with age. The stretched tendon can rupture, resulting in loss of support for the foot’s arch. The condition is generally unilateral but may affect both feet in association with unsuitable footwear or frequent barefoot walking, and may be worsened by factors such as obesity, hypertension or diabetes.
Traumatic injury
Traumatic injuries such as an ankle sprain or malleolus fracture can rupture the posterior tibial tendon and lead to dysfunction. They may aggravate existing inflammation, causing microtears and weakening the tendon. When the tendon can no longer support the plantar arch, acquired flatfoot can develop.
How to recognize posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
With a degenerative injury, a person born with flat feet may suddenly experience pain and swelling. Even without pre-existing flat feet, unsuitable footwear or frequent barefoot walking can lead to sudden, painful tendon dysfunction and loss of the plantar arch. Complications may include hardened skin under the foot, metatarsalgia and, in some cases, ulcers.
Are you experiencing pain?
Orthopedic shoes combined with foot orthotics rebalance posture and address foot pain, providing correction, mobility control and improved contact with the ground.
Treatment for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is the leading cause of acquired flatfoot in adults. If the condition is genetic and not related to a sports injury, it can be addressed promptly. At the Laboratoire Orthopédique, we emphasize prevention from an early age and see children from the age of three to correct and prevent flat feet.
A podograph is used to capture footprints and assess the problem. Over time, this can reduce the risk of posterior tibial tendon rupture. To correct and prevent dysfunction, we offer hand-moulded plastic ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs). These orthoses help lift and support the plantar arch. Wearing orthopedic shoes complements the treatment. In severe cases, surgery is often necessary.
Are you experiencing pain?
At the Laboratoire Orthopédique, we welcome you for a consultation to assess posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Book an appointment with us.