Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction or PTTD (commonly referred to as flat feet) is an injury that occurs when the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed or torn. This then leads to flattened foot arches. Symptoms of flat feet include pain and swelling along the inner (medial) side of the ankle, with this pain later spreading to the outer ankle. Conservative treatment optins for flat feet/PTTD include rest, icing and possibly ankle braces or shoe ortthotics to correct the problem. In extreme or persistent cases, surgery may also be an option.
The posterior tibial tendon plays a key role in attaching the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot, thus holding up the arch of the foot and supporting the foot during the act of walking. When this tendon is inflamed or torn as a result of PTTD, it loses its ability to provide stability for the arch of the foot, which can then result in flat feet.
This injury can be the result of trauma e.g. due to a fall, or it can result from overuse. Overuse cases occur mainly among athletes in impact sports such as basketball,or soccer, in which extensive running and jumping can cause damage to the posterior tibial tendon over time.
The primary risk factors for flat feet are:
There is also a correlation between the occurrence of flat feet and that of conditions such as obesity, hypertension and diabetes.
The key symptoms of PTTD are:
In the majority of cases, a conservative (non surgical) treatment approach will be sufficient to relieve PTTD. However, the pain of flat feet can persist well after the start of treatment that ultimately proves successful. In fact, the pain can continue for as long as 3-6 months after the onset of treatment, so patience on the part of the patient is important.
The primary non surgical options for treatment of flat feet are:
In the most severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damage and/or to remove the inflamed tissue. Surgical treatment options for flat feet include the following:
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The Bio Skin Night Splint provides comfort and support to the dorsal frame with the functionality and relief of a posterior splint. It has an articulating hinge design that offers functional adjustability during rehabilitation. It also provides ergonomic malleolar relief with a wide, soft cushioned metatarsal area preventing toe constriction.
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The Bio Skin Standard Ankle Skin is an all-purpose ankle support that provides compression, added stability and increased proprioception.
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For Ankle Sprains, PTTD, and Plantar Fasciitis
The Bio Skin TriLok has unparalleled versatility, delivering targeted unloading to medial and lateral structures. Positioned laterally, the FootLok™ Strap supports and protects the lateral ligaments and the peroneal tendons. Positioned medially, the FootLok Strap supports the plantar fascia or the posterior tibial tendon. No other brace offers such versatility. The TriLok is effective with almost any type of footwear or with no footwear at all.
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