Definition
Tendons are thick cords that attach muscle to bone and when they become inflamed it is known as tendonitis. Tendonitis can occur due to an injury or by chronic over use of the tendon with regular daily activities and while participating in sports.
Tendonitis that is not treated early can progress into Tendonosis (tiny tears within or around the tendon) or torn tendons.
Posterior Tibialis tendonitis/dysfunction, peroneal tendonitis, and Anterior Tibialis tendonitis are three common types of tendonitis we see here at the Beltsville Foot and Ankle Center.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain, redness, warmth, and swelling at the site of the tendon and surrounding area
- Pain with movement of the foot in a certain direction or with walking
- Sudden decrease in arch height compared to your other foot
- Inner (medial) ankle pain
- Loss of function and strength of the foot
Treatment
Relieving pain, restoring motion, and maintaining function, are the goals of treatment. Once your tendon has healed we focus on ways to prevent re-injury.
- Rest, ice, compression, elevation
- Pain relief with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
- Non-weight bearing with crutches
- Immobilization with removable walking cast
- Bracing
- Physical therapy
- Changes in shoe gear/wearing the appropriate shoes for the activity
- High Power Laser Therapy
- AmnioFix
Tendonitis that progresses to tendinopathy or tendon tear usually require surgical intervention. The best tendon injury is the one you do not allow to happen. Prevention is the key!
