Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
The Adult Acquired Flat Foot
One of the worst kinds of flat foot is due to the weakening or rupture
of a tendon called the posterior tibialis. The condition is known by
several names including posterior tibialis dysfunction (PTD), posterior
tibial tendon dysfunction and tibialis posterior dysfunction. The
weakening of this tendon leads to an “Adult Acquired Flatfoot” – a
progressive flattening of one or both feet.
This condition can lead to severe changes in foot position and function.
The collapse of the arch can lead to arthritis, ankle pain, foot pain,
fatigue, tendon pain and changes in shape of the foot. It can even cause
knee, hip and back pain due to changes in gait.
We can usually treat PTD with conservative treatment, and surgery is
rarely indicated. It is important, however, to be seen as soon as
possible for a complete evaluation to help prevent damage to the foot.
Diagnostic testing will include muscle tests,
gait evaluation and x-rays. An MRI may
be ordered to evaluate the integrity of the tendon. If the tendon is
injured we will discuss options for treatment or repair of the tendon.
Sometimes a period of immobilization is necessary.
Most PTD is treated long-term with orthotic
devices. Very specialized orthotics with greater width and several
special features designed to offer greater control than standard
orthotics are often needed. Standard orthotic devices usually fail in
treating PTD. Sometimes orthotics cannot provide enough control and in
those cases we prescribe Ankle-Foot Orthotics
(AFOs) and/or shoe modifications
for greater
control and pain relief.
We are specialists in treating severe flat foot deformities including
PTD. Our goal is to treat the problem without surgery. The sooner you
visit us, the more likely we will be able to help you with conservative
treatment.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have posterior tibialis
dysfunction (PTD), call today for an appointment in our Seattle office.
Figure 1 - Posterior Tibial Tendon
Figure 2 - Flat foot secondary to Posterior Tibial Dysfunction
Figure 3 - Flat foot secondary to Posterior Tibial Dysfunction
Figure 2 - Heel does not turn inward with single leg toe rise maneuver
due to Posterior Tibial Dysfunction
A list of articles from the medical literature related to the use of
orthotics in the treatment of Posterior Tibialis Dysfunction is
available on our bibliography page.
The doctors at the Foot and Ankle Center of Washington are among the
Puget Sound area’s best and most experienced in treating flat feet both
conservatively and surgically. Don’t live with pain due to flat feet.
Call today for an appointment in our Seattle office.
All pages on this website © 2008
Douglas Hale, DPM & Lawrence Huppin, DPM
Foot and Ankle Center of Washington, Seattle
The material provided on this web site is for informative purposes only.
If you need specific medical advice, please contact the office for an appointment.
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