Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a common foot and ankle condition experienced by many people. One of the most important tendons in the leg, the posterior tibial tendon connects the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot. Its main function is to support the arch of the foot while walking. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction occurs when this tendon becomes inflamed or torn, which can decrease support for the arch of the foot, resulting in flat feet.

 

Symptoms of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction usually occur after activity that requires heavy use of the tendon, such as running, hiking, climbing or walking. Symptoms include pain, swelling, flattening of the arch and an inward roll of the ankle. This ailment is generally progressive, and if left untreated can get worse.

 

When posterior tibial tendon dysfunction develops, it starts with pain on the inside of the foot and ankle. In addition, the area may be red, warm or swollen as well. As the dysfunction progresses and the arch begins to flatten, the pain may stay, but the foot and toes will begin to turn outward. This means that the ankle will roll inward as you walk and cause pain on the outside of the foot and below the ankle. Once the condition has deteriorated this far, it indicates that the tendon has deteriorated considerable and arthritis is developing.

 

While surgery might be required for more serious causes, if you come to our office early on, we may be able to help with only mild correction. Dr. Harry Cotler provides both non-invasive and surgical treatment for a variety of foot conditions. To schedule an appointment with this Soldotna podiatrist, call (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com. 

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis

While most bones in our body are connected to each other at joints, there are a few that are connected only to tendons or are embedded in muscle. These are called sesamoids. The largest one in the body is the patella (kneecap), but there are also two very small sesamoids in the feet. They are both found in the underside of the foot, with one behind the great toe and the other closer to the middle of the foot on the outside.

 

These sesamoids act as pulleys, providing a smooth surface for the tendons to slide over, which gives the tendons extra leverage and power. The sesamoids in the foot also elevate the bones of the great toe and assist in weight bearing. Without the sesamoids, the big toe loses some of its power and force.  

If the tendons that surround the sesamoids become irritated or inflamed, it is called sesamoiditis, which is a form of tendinitis common among ballet dancers, baseball catchers and runners. The most common symptom of sesamoiditis is pain underneath the big toe on the ball of the foot. This pain usually builds gradually over time and is accompanied by swelling and bruising. Symptoms are pressure related and are brought on by walking, running or jumping or when direct pressure is applied.

 

If you believe you have sesamoiditis in Soldotna, AK, schedule an appointment with our office for diagnosis. Dr. Harry Cotler can treat this condition in a variety of ways, from non-invasive to surgical. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com. 

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, and the most common one is osteoarthritis. While all the different types involve inflammation and swelling in and around the joints, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is caused by wear and tear as you age. Usually occurring in the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, knee and spine, osteoarthritis can also affect your hands and feet.

 

The most common places for osteoarthritis to occur in the foot are where the ankle and shinbone meet, the heel, mid-foot and the big toe. Symptoms often develop gradually and include aching and soreness in the joint (especially after long uses), stiffness, swelling and fluid accumulation.

Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men and in those older than 60. However, osteoarthritis has been diagnosed in much younger individuals in their 20s and 30s. Some factors increase an individual’s chance of developing the disease, including heredity, obesity and overuse of the joint.

 

There are several ways to treat osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle, including steroid injections, anti-inflammatory drugs, arch supports, canes, shoe inserts and more. If you are experiencing foot pain, schedule an appointment with our practice. We can help alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harry Cotler, call (907) 260-3668. For more information, visit www.HCotler.com.