POSTERIOR TIBIAL TENDON DYSFUNCTION (PTTD) PART 2 – TREATMENT OPTIONS

There are a range of treatment modalities available for the treatment of PTTD. Pain may last longer than 3 months even with early treatment. For patients who have had pain for many months, it is not uncommon for the pain to last another 6 months after treatment starts.

1. Rest

Decreasing or even stopping activities that worsen the pain is the first step. Switching to low-impact exercise is helpful. Biking, elliptical machines, or swimming do not put a large impact load on the foot, and are generally tolerated by most patients.

2. Ice

Apply cold packs on the most painful area of the posterior tibial tendon for 20 minutes at a time, 3 or 4 times a day to keep down swelling. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. Placing ice over the tendon immediately after completing an exercise helps to decrease the inflammation around the tendon.

3. Physical therapy

Your podiatrist can prescribe you stretches and strengthening exercises of the calf muscles and tibialis posterior muscle to assist in the recovery of the muscle. If the PTTD is treated early, these exercises in most cases can reduce the likelihood of the injury reoccurring.

4. Orthotic therapy

Most people can be helped with orthotics and braces. An orthotic is a shoe insert. It is the most common nonsurgical treatment for a flatfoot. An over-the-counter orthotic may be enough for patients with a mild change in the shape of the foot. A custom orthotic is required in patients who have moderate to severe changes in the shape of the foot.

Surgery

Surgical options are rarely considered and the majority of cases are resolved through conservative treatment. Surgery will only be considered when all conservative therapies have been ineffective for a prolonged period of time.

If you are concerned that you may have PTTD or have any questions regarding PTTD, come into clinic and we will be more than happy to assist you with your questions. If you are having problems with pain in your lower legs and feet, don’t hesitate to call us on 9569 5145 or make a booking online and the team at Sole-Lution Podiatry will sort you out. We are located at 398 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville, NSW, 2204.

Stay safe as always!