Can you walk with a torn posterior tibialis tendon?

After the transfer, the toes will still be able to move and most patients will not notice a change in how they walk. Although the transferred tendon can substitute for the posterior tibial tendon, the foot still is not normal. Some people may not be able to run or return to competitive sports after surgery.

How long does it take for a torn posterior tibial tendon to heal?

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction generally takes 6-8 weeks to improve and early activity on a healing tendon can result in a set back in recovery. Non-compliance can double the recovery time and can be very frustrating for patients. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a progressive condition.

How do you treat a torn posterior tibial tendon?

How are posterior tibial tendonitis and tears treated?

1. Rest from activities that irritate the tendon.
2. Anti-inflammatory medications.
3. Immobilization of the foot with a walking cast or boot to prevent motion.
4. Orthotic devices that may include shoe inserts to support the heel and arch or even an ankle stirrup brace.

Can you sprain posterior tibial tendon?

A rupture of the posterior tibial tendon can be easily missed because the symptoms of this injury resemble the symptoms of a normal ankle sprain. Some physicians may feel that posterior tibial tendon rupture is a rare condition, one that they have never seen.

Can a torn posterior tibial tendon heal on its own?

The human body has an incredible capacity to heal after trauma, and if the soft tissue is allowed to rest it will often heal on its own. Added stress will prolong the healing process. Rest is often accompanied by the use of over-the-counter NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) such as Ibuprofen.

What happens if posterior tibial tendonitis goes untreated?

If left untreated, this injury may lead to irreversible damage, such as a flat foot, painful degenerative arthritis and mobility problems. In advanced cases, or those that have not responded to conservative measures after 3 months or more, surgery may be recommended.

Is walking good for posterior tibial tendonitis?

Balance and Proprioception Because improved balance and awareness of foot and ankle position have been shown to decrease stress through your injured posterior tibial tendon. This may help decrease pain and improve your ability to return to normal, pain-free walking and running.

Is a rupture worse than a tear?

Any type of tear can cause patients issues but a full rupture is much tougher to bounce back from in the long-term as a great deal of tissue needs to be repaired.

What is the best treatment for posterior tibial tendonitis?

Treating Posterior Tibial Tendonitis Your doctor may recommend RICE therapy — rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Anti-inflammatory medication may also be recommended. In addition, your treatment plan may include physical therapy, which includes strengthening exercises.

Will a torn tendon heal without surgery?

More than 90% of tendon injuries are long term in nature, and 33-90% of these chronic rupture symptoms go away without surgery. In contrast, acute rupture, as occurs with trauma, may or may not be repaired surgically depending on the severity of the tear.

Does posterior tibial tendonitis ever heal?

Posterior tibial tendonitis can take some time to heal, especially if you are up and around on your feet. The key to healing is rest. The tendon will not heal, and will continue to be swollen if it is not allowed to rest.

Could you walk on a torn posterior tibial tendon?

In short you will be able to walk on a torn posterior tibial tendon. The problem is the support of your arch is gone thus the bones will gradually change position leading to arthritis. If you wait to long this can get very bad and take a long time to heal requiring surgery.

What is posterior tendon dysfunction?

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction or PTTD is a dysfunction of the posterior tibialis muscle, resulting in a fallen arch, or flat feet.

Where does the posterior tibial tendon attach?

The posterior tibial tendon runs along the inside of the ankle and attaches the tibialis posterior muscle (located at the back of the lower leg) to the foot bones in 3 different locations.