What Is Posterior Tibial Tendonitis?

The posterior tibial tendon is a major tendon that runs along the inner side of the ankle and foot and plays a critical role in supporting the arch of the foot during walking and movement. Posterior Tibial Tendonitis occurs when this tendon becomes inflamed, irritated, or damaged due to overuse, injury, strain, or abnormal foot mechanics.

This condition is especially common in people with flat feet because the tendon is placed under increased stress while supporting the arch. If left untreated, the tendon may progressively weaken, causing the arch to collapse and leading to a condition known as Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD), which is one of the most common causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity.

PTTD is more commonly seen in women, individuals over the age of 40, and patients who are overweight or obese. Athletes and dancers may also develop tendon irritation from repetitive stress and overuse.

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis Treatment Options

At our New York foot clinic, we carefully evaluate the severity of tendon damage, foot alignment, gait mechanics, and overall symptoms to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and activity level.

Early treatment is essential to prevent worsening tendon damage and progressive arch collapse. Conservative treatment often includes rest, anti-inflammatory therapy, braces, physical therapy, and custom orthotics designed to support the arch and reduce stress on the tendon.

For athletes, performers, and patients seeking accelerated recovery, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy may also be recommended to help reduce pain and stimulate healing.

When diagnosed and treated early, Posterior Tibial Tendonitis can often be successfully managed before permanent tendon damage or arch collapse develops. Conservative treatment is highly effective for reducing pain, restoring stability, and improving foot function.

Patients who follow their treatment plan and address underlying biomechanical issues often experience significant long-term improvement and reduced risk of recurrent symptoms.

TREATMENT OPTIONS
RICE Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression & Elevation)

Early treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain through activity modification, icing, compression, and elevation of the affected foot and ankle.

NSAIDs & Anti-Inflammatory Medication

NSAIDs may help relieve inflammation and discomfort associated with tendon irritation and overuse.

Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

Physical therapy is commonly prescribed for four to six weeks to reduce pain and swelling, improve strength and flexibility, and restore proper tendon function and balance.

PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

PRP therapy may help stimulate healing and accelerate recovery by using concentrated growth factors from the patient’s own blood to support tissue repair and reduce inflammation. This treatment is especially beneficial for athletes, performers, and active individuals.

Treatment Duration & Recovery

Mild cases may improve within several weeks with early conservative treatment and reduced activity. More severe cases involving tendon dysfunction or arch collapse may require longer treatment and rehabilitation periods.

Patients undergoing physical therapy often participate in treatment for approximately four to six weeks, although recovery times vary depending on tendon damage severity and activity level. Consistent use of orthotics and supportive footwear is often recommended for long-term protection and prevention.

Get Back to Doing What You Love Faster

At To Healthy Feet Podiatry, we don’t want anything hindering you from doing what you love!

That’s why we offer fully customized and highly effective Posterior Tibial Tendonitis treatments, including PRP, to get you back on your feet quickly. To find out more, call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes scar tissue builds up in a tendon and causes the tendon to lose its elasticity. At that point, chronic Achilles tendinitis can be treated by removing the scar tissue using a minimally invasive procedure like Tenex. This uses a wand that transmits ultrasonic energy to break through the scar tissue leaving healthy tissue behind. Downtime is minimal and return to normal activity is about a week.

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 form and posture. If unsure, always ask!
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Grab a resistance band (or even a stretchy t-shirt)! Place the band or shirt around the ball of your foot. Pull the two ends of the band or shirt towards you until you feel a nice stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds, and relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this 5-10 times for both legs!

Achilles tendonitis rarely requires surgery. However, if treatment is delayed or neglected, there could be further damage such as a tendon tear. This would require surgical repair, and although we can do this with minimally invasive techniques, it is better to prevent damage when possible. Don’t ignore your pain. See your podiatrist as soon as possible.

RELATED SERVICES

By accurately diagnosing, treating, and preventing lower leg, foot, and ankle conditions and ailments, we get you on your way back to healthy feet!Β  We use conservative care and only activate surgeries when absolutely necessary.Β  Here are some of the foot and ankle conditions we treat. Get that peace of mind, and reach out and book an appointment with us today!

ANKLE SPRAIN

BUNION/HALLUX VALGUS

MORTON'S NEUROMA

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

TESTIMONIAL

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