Tibialis Anterior Tendinopathy


What is Tibialis Anterior Tendinopathy/ Insertional Tibialis Anterior Tendinitis?

Tibialis anterior tendinopathy/tendinitis occurs when the anterior tibial tendon degenerates or tears. This tendon is one of the main support mechanisms of the arch and as a result, with its dysfunction the arch of the foot is no longer supported which can result in a flat foot deformity or the ‘foot slapping’.
Tibialis anterior

Typically pain is  present along the course of the tendon,  just in front or below the ankle join and onto

Ultrasound examination at The Foot and Ankle Centre can assist in diagnosing this problem.  Not the inflammation of the insertion of the tendon as it attaches to the medial cuneiform

Tibialis Anterior insertional Ultrasound


What Causes Tibialis Anterior Tendon Injury?

  • Sudden changes in training routines – increased frequency in training
  • Trauma – acute trauma to the tendon can result in its degeneration this is commonly seen in inversion ankle sprains
  • Certain Connective tissue disorders
  • Biomechanical abnormalities- The main cause of Anterior TIbial Tendon pain is having an overly flat foot.  This is because the position of the foot changes the demand from certain muscle groups.
    Neutral Foot In a neutral foot  the muscles on the inside of the foot (invertors) work just as hard as the muscles on the outside of the foot (evertors).
    Flat Foot In a flat foot the muscles on the inside of the foot (invertors) work a lot harder to try and correct the position of the foot  – overtime this can result the degeneration of the tibialis anterior tendon.

Complications of Anterior Tibial Tendon Injury

 


Treatment of Anterior Tibial Tendon Injury

  • Orthotics with a rearfoot post –There are a number of different orthotic designs available for flat feet. Most orthotic designs are simply arch supports.
    These are not ideal for the flat foot, often only irritating the arch of the foot.DHC OrthoticModulign Orthoitcs are a new orthotic designed to provide superior support and adjustment. Click here for more information

 

  • Footwear modification
  • Lace up ankle brace
  • Ankle Foot Orthotic
  • Surgery

 


 

The Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre’s Northcote Podiatrists can help you with all lower limb complaints, including Ankle Pain. Make an appointment to get your foot and ankle pain under control.

Expert Podiatrists for the treatment of Anterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction servicing the areas of Northcote, Thornbury, Fitzroy, North Fitzroy, Carlton, North Carlton, Alphington, Fairfield, Brunswick, Coburg and Preston