What are tendon problems?
The most common foot tendon to tear include the posterior tibial tendon, the peroneal tendons and the Achilles tendon.
Tibialis posterior dysfunction
The posterior tibial tendon links the calf muscle to the bones inside the foot. It is a vital tendon in the leg, because it holds up the foot’s arch and supports it during walking.
Seen more frequently in women, tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction occurs as a result of the posterior tibial tendon becoming torn or swollen. This can lead to a flat foot because the tendon is no longer able to sustain the stability of the foot’s arch. Arthritis can also be a consequence of these kind of changes in the foot’s shape.
The tendon can be damaged due to an injury from a fall, for example, or can result from repetitive strain, typically arising from playing a sport like tennis. Should inflammation occur in the tendon, the arch will gradually start to fall.
You are more likely to suffer from tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction if:
- You are over 40
- You have weight problems
- You suffer from high blood pressure or diabetes
Pain will be experienced on the inside of the foot and ankle, which is exacerbated by activity. Consequently, running and other sports will become problematic.
As the arch begins to fall, the heel bone may shift outwards, pressurising the outer ankle bone.
At your initial meeting, your consultant will discuss your symptoms and advise you on the most suitable treatment. X-rays to assess any arthritic damage, together with an MRI or ultrasound scan to study the tendon and surrounding tissue in greater detail, may also be organised.
Suffering from tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction doesn’t mean you will need surgery. The application of ice packs, rest, taking anti-inflammatory painkillers under your doctor’s direction, together with wearing a specially supportive medical boot or shoe can be enough to hold up the arch of the foot and ease your pain. It may be that your consultant will also recommend a personal plan of physiotherapy to further improve the tendon’s strength. Should your symptoms prove resistant to the non-surgical treatments outlined however, your consultant may indicate that flat foot surgery is your best option.
Peroneal tendon problems (peroneal tendinopathy or tendonitis)
The two peroneal tendons run side by side from the outside of the leg below the knee, behind the outer ankle bone to the foot. These tendons are used to keep the ankle stable when running or walking and enable the foot to roll outwards.
Peroneal tendon issues are usually caused by overuse, notably an abrupt increase in sporting activity or high-intensity training sessions. Wearing inappropriate footwear or running on bumpy terrain are other significant causes. Football and gymnastics see a high rate of these issues because the foot is frequently sharply pivoted.
The peroneal tendons may also be injured due to being torn or stretched, when you suffer an ankle sprain. Repetitive strain or embarking on a new activity can also lead to inflammation, causing tendinitis. A previous injury can result in long-term tendon degeneration, known as tendinosis.
- An inflamed and painful ankle
- A sensation of the tendon ‘snapping’ or ‘popping’
- Should the sheath surrounding the tendons be affected, tendons can dislocate leading to weakness and an unpleasant ‘clicking’ on movement of the ankle
- Ankle instability and pain when running or walking
- Without treatment, the tendon can rupture, so try to consult a doctor at an early stage
When you first meet, you will be invited to describe your symptoms to your consultant, who will guide you towards the right treatment for you. Often, he will suggest taking anti-inflammatory painkillers. The type of tendon problem you have will dictate the nature of your treatment and your consultant will direct you with this too.
Patients with an Achilles tendon rupture do not always need surgery. Your consultant will advise if Achilles tendon repair surgery is necessary.
Foot & ankle consultants
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