Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis Treatment in Midvale | Optimal Wellness Center

 
 

What Is Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis?

Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis, also known as Posterior Tibialis Tendinopathy, is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the tendon along the inner side of the ankle and foot arch. This tendon, part of the tibialis posterior muscle, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the foot's arch during weight-bearing activities. If you experience persistent pain on the inner side of your foot or ankle that worsens with walking, running, or jumping, it may indicate Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis.

Symptoms of Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain or tenderness along the inner ankle or lower leg, often sensitive to touch.

  • Difficulty performing a single-leg heel raise or rising onto your toes.

  • Pain that intensifies during activities like walking, running, or jumping, with relief at rest.

  • A sense of weakness or instability, especially when walking on uneven surfaces.

How Common Is Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis?

Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis affects approximately 3.3% to 10% of the population, more frequently among women aged 40-50, and typically impacts only one foot. The condition is common in individuals with sudden increases in physical activity, especially high-impact activities.

Causes of Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis

Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis is often triggered by repetitive strain or small injuries to the tendon, particularly when activity levels surge suddenly. Over time, this strain can outpace the tendon’s natural healing ability, weakening the tendon and making it more susceptible to injury.

Additional risk factors include:

  • Aging

  • Excess weight

  • Diabetes, which can increase susceptibility to tendinitis

  • Inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis

  • Muscle tightness or weakness in the feet or legs

  • Wearing unsupportive footwear (e.g., sandals or very flat shoes)

  • Prolonged periods of standing or increased walking/running activities without proper conditioning

  • Previous ankle surgery or injury

  • Certain medications (e.g., prolonged oral corticosteroid use)

  • Smoking

Effective Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis Treatment Options

At Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale, we emphasize holistic approaches to Posterior Tibial Tendonitis treatment, focusing on relieving symptoms and restoring tendon health.

  1. Footwear Modification
    Switching to supportive shoes, like running shoes or hiking boots, helps stabilize the tendon and reduces strain. Avoid hard or overly flat shoes, as flexible soles offer less support and increase stress on the tendon.

  2. Exercise and Strengthening
    Gradual strengthening exercises, beginning with low-impact movements, can help restore tendon stability. Start with early-stage strengthening exercises and gradually progress to advanced stability and balance exercises. Our specialists can guide you on appropriate exercises for each stage of recovery.

  3. Pacing and Activity Management
    Managing your activity levels by pacing and spacing out tasks helps prevent overuse and flare-ups. Regular breaks allow the tendon to recover and prevent symptom exacerbation.

  4. Chiropractic Care
    Chiropractic adjustments can improve foot alignment, reducing tendon stress and enhancing mobility, which supports healing.

  5. Shockwave Therapy
    Shockwave therapy, a non-invasive treatment, stimulates the healing process and reduces inflammation in the tendon, promoting faster recovery.

  6. Massage Therapy
    Targeted massage therapy can alleviate muscle tension, enhance blood flow to the affected area, and reduce pain, supporting the healing process.

Timeline for Recovery

For most individuals, symptoms improve within 6 to 12 weeks of consistent treatment. However, full recovery may take up to nine months for some people, depending on the severity and individual healing rates. Flare-ups may occur during recovery, but with patience and adherence to treatment, a full return to activities is achievable.

When to Seek Additional Support

If symptoms persist beyond 12 weeks, seeking professional care, such as physiotherapy, may be beneficial. At Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale, our team provides comprehensive guidance and support for managing Posterior Tibialis Tendinitis.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Optimal Wellness Center today. Let us help you regain comfort and mobility safely and naturally.