Inner ankle tendonitis, also known as posterior tibial tendonitis, is a painful condition that affects the inner sides of your feet and ankles.
Left untreated, inner ankle tendonitis can devolve into adult-acquired flatfoot deformity among other disabilities. Here’s everything you need to know about posterior tibial tendonitis.
Diagnosis of inner ankle tendonitis is done by a podiatrist
A qualified foot and ankle doctor makes the diagnosis after a physical examination. It may sometimes be the case that an MRI is required to confirm the diagnosis.
The condition presents itself in varying categories of severity with stage 1 being the least severe and stage 4 the most serious.
Does treatment always mean surgery?
To answer the question, no. Surgical intervention is most often required in cases where posterior tibial tendonitis is in its later stages. If detected early enough, treatment may be bed rest. This may look like reducing or eliminating motion altogether.
What else does early treatment involve?
When inner ankle tendonitis is still at the onset, alternative treatment options may be explored. You may be advised to wear a brace, a boot, a cast, or go to physical therapy.
And if left untreated, here’s what can happen – ankle instability and increasing pain.
Inner ankle tendonitis can cause instability
The resulting pain caused by posterior tibial tendonitis can lead to instability when standing or walking. The flattening of the arches over time is what leads to adult-acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD).
Booking a podiatrist appointment
If you suspect you might be suffering from inner ankle tendonitis, Dr. Lonny Nodelman and the team over at District Foot and Ankle are here to help. Request your appointment today.
Looking for more insight? Check out our previous posts:
· Ankle Sprain Grading: How Serious Is Your Injury?
· 5 of the Best Achilles Tendonitis Treatments
· Inner Ankle Pain
Disclaimer: Any information provided in this blog is not intended to replace medical advice given by qualified professionals.