Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy Treatment in Halifax & Elland | Elland Foot Clinic
Posterior tibial tendinopathy is a condition affecting the tendon that supports the arch on the inside of the foot and ankle. When the tendon becomes overloaded or weakened, pain may develop along the inside of the ankle, and the arch may gradually flatten over time. At Elland Foot Clinic, we provide detailed biomechanical assessment and rehabilitation-focused treatment for posterior tibial tendon problems for patients across Elland, Halifax and Calderdale.
Condition
What Is the Posterior Tibial Tendon?
The posterior tibial tendon runs from the calf muscles down the inside of the ankle and attaches into the arch of the foot. Its role is to:
- Support the arch during walking
- Control foot motion
- Stabilise the ankle and midfoot
- Help the foot push off efficiently during movement
What Is Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy?
Posterior tibial tendinopathy occurs when the tendon becomes irritated, overloaded or degenerative due to excessive strain over time. In early stages, symptoms may involve pain and swelling along the inside of the ankle. More advanced cases may lead to progressive collapse of the arch and difficulty walking comfortably.
Common Symptoms of Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy
- Pain along the inside of the ankle
- Tenderness around the tendon
- Swelling near the inner ankle
- Arch pain or fatigue
- Progressive flattening of the foot
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes
- Pain worsening after walking or activity
What Causes Posterior Tibial Tendon Problems?
Several factors may contribute to tendon overload, including:
- Flat feet or excessive pronation
- Repetitive walking or standing
- Increased body weight
- Weakness within the lower limb
- Tight calf muscles
- Inappropriate footwear
- Sudden increases in activity levels
- Previous ankle injuries
Why Can The Arch Collapse?
The posterior tibial tendon plays a major role in supporting the arch during movement. If the tendon becomes weakened or dysfunctional, the foot may gradually roll inward excessively (pronate), placing additional strain on surrounding joints and soft tissues. Over time, this may lead to progressive flatfoot deformity and increasing instability.
How Is Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy Diagnosed?
At Elland Foot Clinic, assessment focuses on identifying both tendon irritation and underlying biomechanical contributors. Assessment may include:
- Foot posture assessment
- Examination of tendon tenderness and swelling
- Single leg heel raise testing
- Assessment of arch stability
- Footwear evaluation
- Lower limb biomechanical examination
Treatment Options for Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy
Treatment aims to reduce tendon strain, improve stability and restore lower limb function. Management may include:
- Orthotics and arch support devices
- Footwear advice
- Tendon strengthening exercises
- Calf rehabilitation programmes
- Load management strategies
- Activity modification
- Biomechanical correction
- Advice regarding walking and exercise progression
Why Footwear Is Important
Unsupportive footwear may increase strain on the posterior tibial tendon by allowing excessive inward foot motion. Supportive footwear with appropriate structure and stability may help reduce mechanical stress on the tendon during walking.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Professional assessment is recommended if:
- Pain develops along the inside of the ankle
- The arch appears to flatten progressively
- Walking becomes uncomfortable
- Swelling develops around the tendon
- Standing on tiptoes becomes difficult
- Symptoms are limiting exercise or daily activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can posterior tibial tendinopathy worsen over time?
Yes. Without appropriate management, the tendon may weaken further and contribute to progressive arch collapse.
Can flat feet cause posterior tibial tendon pain?
Excessive pronation and flatfoot mechanics commonly increase strain on the tendon.
Do orthotics help posterior tibial tendinopathy?
Orthotics may help support the arch and reduce excessive strain on the tendon.
Can exercise help posterior tibial tendon problems?
Strengthening and rehabilitation exercises are often important components of recovery.
Should ankle pain on the inside of the foot be assessed?
Persistent inner ankle pain should be professionally evaluated to identify tendon involvement and prevent progression.