Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Expert Care for Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Specialized Treatment for Adult-Acquired Flatfoot
If you’re experiencing pain or weakness in your foot or ankle, it could be a sign of Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD), also known as adult-acquired flatfoot. This painful, progressive deformity affects the tendon and ligaments that support the arch of your foot, leading to a gradual flattening of the foot. Unlike flat feet seen in children, this condition causes pain due to soft tissue tears and significantly impacts daily activities like walking and standing for extended periods. This condition affects women four times more frequently than men, typically occurring in individuals aged 60 and older, with risk factors including obesity and diabetes.
Seeking prompt evaluation and treatment is essential to managing symptoms and restoring function effectively. At Missouri Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists specialize in PTTD treatment. Understanding the stages of adult-acquired flatfoot is key to effective treatment: Stage I involves inflammation and swelling with a correctable arch; Stage II shows a visible, but still movable, deformity; and Stage III progresses to a rigid, painful flatfoot.
Early intervention is crucial. For Stage I, treatment focuses on rest, protected ambulation (often in a cast), and anti-inflammatory therapy. Once initial symptoms subside, custom-molded foot orthoses paired with supportive athletic or orthopedic footwear are used to maintain stability. For Stage II and beyond, non-surgical success is less likely, and long-term use of an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), such as the specialized Richie Brace, may be necessary to prevent further deformity without surgery.
If non-surgical interventions fail, surgery may be the next option. Common surgical procedures include tendon transfers, osteotomies (cutting and repositioning bone), and joint fusions. Patients must thoroughly discuss the benefits and risks of all surgical options, as most procedures require significant recovery time.
Contact Missouri Foot & Ankle today for specialized treatment of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction in St. Louis! Request your appointment today!
What is Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction?
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