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X-Ray Showing Pain in Ankle

Posterior Tibial Dysfunction or Adult Flatfoot – Beverly Hills, CA

What is Posterior Tibial Dysfunction or Adult Flatfoot (PTTD)

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a condition caused by changes in the tendon. It occurs when the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed or torn, impairing its ability to support the arch, resulting in flattening of one foot, and some occasions both feet. PTTD is progressive, which means it will get worse overtime, especially if it isn’t treated early.

The posterior tibial tendon is one of the major supporting structures of the foot. A tendon attaches muscles to bones, and the posterior tibial tendon attaches the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot. The main function of this tendon is to hold up the arch and support the foot when walking.

Causes of Posterior Tibial Dysfunction

Overuse of the posterior tibial tendon is often the cause of PTTD. Other Several risk factors include:

Symptoms of Posterior Tibial Dysfunction

The symptoms of PTTD include pain, a flattening of the arch, swelling, and an inward rolling of the ankle. When PTTD initially develops, there is pain on the inside of the foot and ankle (along the course of the tendon). In addition, the area may be red, warm, and swollen. As the arch begins to flatten, there may still be pain on the inside of the foot and ankle. But at this point, the foot and toes begins to turn outward and the ankle rolls inward. As it becomes more advanced, the arch flattens more and the pain moves to the outside of the foot, below the ankle. The tendon has deteriorated significantly and arthritis develops in the foot and ankle.

Non-surgical Treatment

Because PTTD is progressive, early treatment is always recommended. When treated early, your symptoms may resolve without the need for surgery. If left untreated PTTD could leave you with an extremely flat foot, arthritis in the foot and ankle, and limitations on walking, running, or other activities. Treatment can begin with non-surgical approaches that include:

Surgical Treatment

Surgery should only be done if the pain does not get better after few months of appropriate treatment. Several procedures can be used to treat progressive flatfoot. The following is a list of the more commonly used operations. Additional procedures may also be required. Your doctor will recommend a specific course of treatment based on your individual case. Surgical options include:

Surgical Outcome

Most patients have good results from surgery allowing patients to go home the day of surgery. The leg will be placed in a splint or cast and should be kept elevated for the first two weeks. After two weeks, sutures are removed and a new cast or a removable boot is then placed. It is important that patients do not put any weight on the corrected foot for first few weeks following the operation. After the initial healing period, patients commonly can transition to wearing a shoe. Inserts and ankle braces are often used. Physical therapy may be recommended.

For more information about Posterior Tibial Dysfunction, or Adult Flatfoot, and the treatments available in the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, CA area, please contact us at 855-SOMA-844 (855-766-2844).