Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a progressive problem that can end up very disabling if it is not dealt with in the early stages. The posterior tibial muscle and tendon is one of the major supporters of the arch of the foot, so if there is a problem with this muscle not being able to do it job any more, then posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a possible consequence. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a progressive flatting of the arch and pronation of the foot at the rearfoot. There is usually progressive pain around the medial side of the ankle and arch. If this is not stopped early it will continue to progress. The causes of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is essentially the muscle giving up its job. All cases of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction have a more medially located subtalar joint axis, so this means that the tendon has a very small lever arm to the joint axis, so the muscle has to work a lot harder than is the axis was in a more normal position. Early on in posterior tibial tendon dysfunction very aggressive foot orthotics are needed to arrest the progression. Next AFO type rearfoot braces are needed. If this does not help, then the only option for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is surgical.