Cause: Post— Tib Tendonitis occurs when the muscle is overused and the tendon (soft tissue) that connects the muscle to your bone is strained. Years of over— pronation (flat feet) can also lead to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. If you keep overusing the muscle, damage to the tendon builds up and tendonitis develops. At first the pain or swelling may come and go quickly, but eventually the problem may become more permanent.
Treatment & Prevention: To treat post— tib tendonitis, you can reduce your symptoms by limiting activity to control the pain and swelling. Stay off your feet a few days, then slowly increase your activity. Rest allows the tissues in your foot to heal.
Conservative treatments (non— surgical treatments) include wearing a foot orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal arch support, to reduce strain on the post tibial tendon reduce strain on the post tibial tendon prevent excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The orthotic should also be designed with materials to comfort the foot and absorb shock.
Listed below are tips to prevent Post— Tib Tendonitis from reoccurring:
- Wear the shoes that provide cushioning, support and shock absorption.
- Use orthotics with sufficient arch support that are constructed from shock absorbing, cushioning materials.
- Vary exercise routines. The variety will keep one set of muscles from being under continuous stress.
- If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.
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