Tendon/Ligament Injuries

Description

Tendons connect muscle to bone, whereas ligaments connect bones to each other. Both provide stability to the foot and ankle and are often prone to injury. Tendon or ligament tears may occur from overuse, improper footwear, or from a fall. 

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, redness, warmth, weakness, and/or an inability to walk or perform your normal day-to-day activities

Treatment Options

Treatment of a tendon or ligament injury/tear will depend on the severity and may include any of the following: rest, ice, NSAIDs, brace or cast, orthotics, physical therapy, and/or surgery

Treatment Option Description (with Duration)

When the signs of tendon or ligament injury are first encountered, it is important to limit physical activity and ice the affected area. In addition to icing, taking an NSAID, such as ibuprofen, can further help to reduce pain and swelling. Your podiatrist may recommend a brace, cast, or boot to support your foot and keep it still while the tendon/ligament is healing. Custom orthotics may also be prescribed. An orthotic is an insert that is worn inside your shoes. Tendon injuries can sometimes change the shape of your foot, which then requires special support. As symptoms improve, physical therapy can also be added to the treatment regimen to help you regain strength, motion, and balance. If your symptoms do not improve with the above options, and/or your symptoms get worse, then surgery will be required to repair the tendon/ligament. 

Expected Outcome

Untreated ligament or tendon injuries can lead to chronic pain and instability. Early detection and treatment is key to treating current pain and also to help prevent pain in the future.

We Help Treat Your Tendon/Ligament Injury Quickly 

Whatever your tendon/ligament injury or condition, our NYC foot doctors can get you back on your feet quickly! Serving the Downtown and Midtown Manhattan areas of NYC, we help you get back to healthy and happy living. Call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.