What Tenex Is Used For And How It Works
What Is The Tenex Procedure?
The Tenex procedure is a microsurgery that breaks up diseased tissue, scar tissue, and calcifications in the foot. Unlike other, more invasive surgeries, this microsurgery does not cut or damage the fascia. This procedure is highly focused and only impacts the area of treatment, leaving the surrounding fascia and tissue healthy. Here is what to expect from a Tenex procedure:
First, an ultrasound may be used to identify exactly where the damaged tissue is within the tendon. The area of treatment will then receive local anesthesia. A micro incision will be made at the affected area and a small instrument will be inserted into the incision, often through the heel of the foot, and into the damaged tendon. This instrument then vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency that breaks up and removes damaged scar tissue. Once the procedure is finished, no stitches are required, although you may have an adhesive bandage placed over the area of incision. This outpatient procedure typically only takes between 20 and 30 minutes. You are allowed to drive home once the procedure has finished unless you have been sedated, in which case you should arrange for someone else to drive you home. After the procedure, it is recommended that you wear a walking boot for 1 week. After this week, you may resume your normal activities without a walking boot.
What Foot Conditions Can Tenex Be Used To Treat?
Conditions that can be treated with Tenex include:
- Peroneal tendonitis. The peroneal tendons are the two tendons in the foot that run behind the outer ankle bone. One of the tendons attaches to the outside of the foot at the base of the pinkie toe while the other extends underneath the foot and attaches to the arch. Peroneal tendonitis develops when these bands of tissues become inflamed from overuse or injury and develop scar tissue.
- Achilles tendinosis. The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone and it is the largest tendon in your body. Achilles tendinosis often causes aching, tenderness, and stiffness in the back of the leg or above the heel.
- Plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a thin ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. When this thick, web-like ligament becomes inflamed, torn, or damaged, it can cause pain in the heel of the foot. This pain develops gradually over time and can be either sharp or dull.
When Is Tenex The Right Choice?
Some mild cases of foot pain may heal at home with self-care measures. If you suffer from mild foot or ankle pain, or pain that is not chronic, use the R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) technique to help facilitate healing. Tenex is not recommended for one-time injuries that can be resolved with at-home treatment. If your pain is chronic and other podiatry recommendations have not resolved your condition, then it is time to consider Tenex. This microsurgery is often used after a person has visited a podiatrist or physical therapist and has had their condition examined and confirmed. Tenex is primarily used for people who have ongoing issues with tendon pain, such as peroneal tendonitis, Achilles tendinosis, and plantar fasciitis, and who have sought prior treatment without pain relief.
Minimally Invasive Surgery With A Manhattan Podiatrist
If you are suffering from chronic foot pain, the Tenex procedure may help reduce your symptoms. This minimally invasive microsurgery can offer quick pain relief with little downtime and no stitches, so you can start walking pain-free right away. At To Healthy Feet Podiatry, our Manhattan podiatrists are trained to diagnose the cause of your foot pain and help resolve it. Treating conditions such as peroneal tendonitis will prevent them from becoming more severe and painful. If you are experiencing peroneal tendonitis or suffering due to any other foot or ankle pain, call To Healthy Feet Podiatry at 1-917-398-3668 or fill out the contact form to book your appointment at our Upper East Side, Times Square, Midtown Grand Central, or Downtown Wall Street locations today.
FAQ
Q: How many Tenex treatments are needed to see results?
A: Your pain will typically be reduced in only one session.
Q: How can I prevent peroneal tendonitis?
A: Warm up before and cool down after your workout routine. Slowly increase the intensity of your exercise over a period of time. If you're using equipment at the gym, make sure you know how to use it safely and also with the correct posture. If unsure, always ask!
Q: Can I recover from tendonitis by myself?
A: Yes. There are many tendonitis treatments that you can try at home. These include resting, keeping the affected foot elevated, applying ice, and stretching. Manage the injury until full recovery.
