Tendonitis involves inflammation and pain of the sheath surrounding a tendon. When force is particularly large or is repetitive over a long time a tendon can strain or even tear. Tendonitis can develop in any of the tendons of the foot and ankle. The more common sites that tendonitis will develop include the tendon that; attaches to the back of the heel bone (Achilles tendon), supports the inside of the arch (Posterior tibial tendon) and supports the top of the arch (Tibialis anterior tendon). If not treated, tendonitis can weaken the tendon leading to rupture.
Tendonitis can usually be successfully treated with orthotic therapy and muscle strengthening and stretching exercises. When required Extra corporal shock wave therapy is used to treat tendonitis. Often our podiatric surgeon will prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or administer cortisone injections to treat tendonitis. Such treatment is often combined with the use of a postoperative shoe, “moon boot” or brace. In some cases, surgery is required in order to achieve healing.