Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Specialist treatment for PTTD and adult-acquired flat foot. Early intervention prevents progression and maintains foot function.
What is Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction?
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a progressive condition affecting the tendon that runs along the inside of the ankle. This tendon is crucial for supporting the arch and controlling foot motion during walking.
When the tendon becomes damaged or inflamed, the arch gradually collapses, leading to adult-acquired flat foot. Early treatment is essential to prevent progression and avoid the need for surgery.
Common Symptoms
- Pain and swelling along the inner ankle
- Gradual flattening of the foot arch
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Ankle turning outward
- Pain on the outside of the ankle (later stages)
Common Causes
- Overuse and repetitive strain
- Acute injury to the tendon
- Obesity and increased body weight
- Inflammatory conditions (rheumatoid arthritis)
- Diabetes
- Age-related degeneration
- Previous steroid injections near the tendon
How We Treat Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
PTTD is staged I-IV based on severity. Early-stage disease responds well to conservative treatment. Our goal is to support the foot, reduce tendon strain, and prevent progression to more severe stages that may require surgery.
Custom Orthotics/AFO
Supportive devices to control foot motion and reduce tendon strain.
Immobilisation
Walking boot or cast for acute flare-ups to allow tendon healing.
Strengthening Exercises
Targeted rehabilitation to support the weakened tendon.
Footwear Modification
Supportive, stable shoes with appropriate depth for orthotics.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Pain along the inside of your ankle
- Your arch seems to be getting flatter
- You can't stand on tiptoes on one foot
- Ankle or foot pain is affecting your walking
- Previous treatments haven't helped
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction at Lower Limb Clinic.
Find Your Nearest Clinic
Get Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction at our clinic, conveniently located in East Belfast
Lisburn Road Clinic
385 Lisburn Road, BT9 7EP
Ormeau Road Clinic
373 Ormeau Road, BT7 3GP
Newcastle Clinic
1 Shimna Road, BT33 0AS
We serve patients from across Belfast and Northern Ireland including East Belfast, South Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Dundonald, Carryduff, Hillsborough, and Comber.
Get Expert Treatment
- Same-week appointments available
- No GP referral needed
- MSc-qualified specialists
Related Conditions
Find Your Nearest Clinic
Get Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction at our clinic, conveniently located in East Belfast
Lisburn Road Clinic
385 Lisburn Road, BT9 7EP
Ormeau Road Clinic
373 Ormeau Road, BT7 3GP
Newcastle Clinic
1 Shimna Road, BT33 0AS
We serve patients from across Belfast and Northern Ireland including East Belfast, South Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Dundonald, Carryduff, Hillsborough, and Comber.