Foot Tendonitis Information

Foot tendonitis is a common condition amongest hard working people and athletes. Tendonitis of the foot affects 1 particular tendon in the foot, the posterior tibial tendon. This tendon helps to hold the arch of the foot and prevents your feet from rolling in too much. The information on this page will help you identify, treat and cure foot tendonitis.

Anatomy of the Foot

Below you will see a detailed diagram of the foot. The posterior tibial tendon is circled in red. Foot tendonitis should nto be confused with achilles tendonitis which effects the achilles tendon running down the back of the foot.

Causes of Foot Tendonitis

Generally, foot tendonitis is caused by overuse and/or injury. In most cases the tendonitis develops as a result of initial strain, minor degeneration and a rupture of the tendon. Tendon inflammation is a secondarn reaction. The following scenarios are likely to cause foot tendonitis:

1. Running or walking up and down steep hills
2. Activities on uneven ground
3. Standing for long periods without rest
4. Old age (tendons become brittle with age)
5. Wearing the incorrect footwear during exercise or activity
6. Flat foot types

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of foot tendonitis include pain in the posterior tibial tendon region (see diagram), swelling of the foot, a "hot" feeling, pain at night and stiffness of the foot and ankle. It's likely that a person with foot tendonitis will have a "stabbing like" pain in the arch of their foot, especially when standing on their toes. This is due to the inflammation on the nerve that surrounds the posterior tibial tendon.

Foot Tendonitis Treatment

The first step to treating foot tendonitis is to stop activity immediately. You should then apply the R.I.C.E. method. Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. You should never apply ice directlyto the area, always wrap the ice pack in a towel. Also only apply ice in 20 minute intervals. If required, you can take regular over the counter anti-inflammatory medication. You should keep up with this style of treatment until your foot tendonitis symptoms go away.

In most cases, you will be able to treat foot tendonitis using the R.I.C.E method and there will be no need to consult your doctor. However, in severe cases where the symptoms do not subside or the tendonitis keeps recurring you should consult your doctor. The doctor will give you a full examination and may recommend cortisone injections or surgery for further treatment.

Prevention Tips

Here are some tips to help you prevent foot tendonitis from occuring:

1. Always wear appropriate footwear
2. Try to aviod running on uneven surfaces
3. If your shoes do not fit properly buy some inner-soles to support your feet
4. Always warm up and stretch correctly before sport or exercise
5. If you're returning to sport or exercise after a period of absence always ease back into it. Your tendons lose their elasticity with inactivity and will be more prone to injury