Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
The posterior tibial tendon is one of the most important tendons of the leg. The posterior tibial tendon attaches the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot. The main function of the tendon is to hold up the arch and support the foot when walking.Posterior Tibial Tendonitis thus is the inflammation of the Posterior Tibial tendon (PTT)
To understand the injury, it would be helpful to first understand the function of the PTT and of the related muscle.
Tibialis Posterior
As well as being a key muscle and tendon for stabilization, the tibialis posterior contracts to produce inversion and assists in the plantar flexion (pointing) of the foot at the ankle. The Tibialis Posterior has a major role in supporting the medial (inner) arch of the foot.
Causes and Symptoms
Increased strain on the Posterior Tibialis happens when the feet are overpronated while standing in turn out (rolling of the foot forward) and typically happens if the turn out is taken excessively from the feet.
If this is not corrected, the constant strain can lead to eventual tendonitis. Patients with PPT present with pain on the inner side of the foot or ankle, which exacerbates with weight bearing and with inversion and plantar flexion against resistance. As posterior tibial tendonitis progresses, the arch of the foot can flatten and the toes begin to point outwards. This is the result of the posterior tibial tendon not doing its job to support the arch of the foot.
Strengthening the Tibialis Posterior
One of our favourite exercises here at BodyTree Ballet which is the perfect exercise Posterior Tibialis activation, integrated with foot to core sequencing from Dr Emily, world renowned Human Movement Specialist and Podiatrist:
Join us on 01 October for an exclusive 2 hour workshop by Dr Emily for a dancer’s exploration of foot to core sequencing to improve dance performance and prevent injury. Spots are filling out fast! Sign up now!
Sources:
Image: https://www.prosportpt.com/single-post/2016/08/26/TIBIALIS-POSTERIOR-DYSFUNCTION
Video: EBFAFitness