Posterior Tibialis Tendon Dysfunction

Posterior Tibialis Tendon Dysfunction

The tendon of the posterior tibialis muscle is one of the most commonly injured structures in the lower limb. When the tendon is injured due to overuse or trauma such as a fall, it can become inflamed or torn if the injury is severe. This is known as posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction. 

The posterior tibialis muscle connects the shin bone to the bones on the inside of the foot. It holds up the arch of the foot and provides support to the entire foot. However, it has a limited blood supply, meaning that there is less blood to repair the tendon when small injuries occur. Over time, these microtears accumulate, resulting in posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction and gradual collapsing of the arch of the foot.

Signs and Symptoms: 

• Pain along the inside of the ankle 
• Pain that worsens with activity 
• Swelling  
• A collapse of the arch of the foot 

Latest Research Links: 

Exercise for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials and clinical guidelines 

Finite element simulation on posterior tibial tendinopathy: Load transfer alteration and implications to the onset of pes planus