If you’re experiencing pain along the inside of your ankle or noticing a flattening of your foot arch, you may be dealing with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). At our offices serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the posterior tibial tendon.
This tendon plays a critical role in supporting your arch and stabilizing your foot during walking and activity. When it becomes inflamed or torn, it can lead to progressive flatfoot deformity and chronic pain if left untreated. Dr. Fallis offers comprehensive care—from early-stage conservative treatments to advanced surgical solutions—helping patients across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati regain stability, reduce pain, and restore function.
What is Posterior Tibial Tendon?
The posterior tibial tendon passes through the ankle to attach the calf muscle with the bones of the midfoot. It provides stability to the arch and supports the foot while walking. Inflammation or a tear of this tendon as a result of injury may cause dysfunction, leading to pain and the development of a flatfoot.
Symptoms
Symptoms of flatfoot include pain on the inside of the ankle that may be accompanied by swelling. Flatfoot may cause the heel to shift outwards causing pain on the outside of the ankle as well. Activities such as walking, running, and standing on your toes may aggravate pain. If treatment is delayed there may be rigidity and development of arthritis. You may have trouble walking or wearing shoes.
Diagnosis
When you present to the clinic with these symptoms, your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical examination, testing for pain, swelling, changes in ankle position, flexibility, strength and range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, CT and ultrasound scans may be ordered to visualize the tendon and rule out other abnormalities.
Treatment
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction in its early stages may be treated with rest, cold packs, immobilization, physical therapy, steroid injection, and anti-inflammatory medication. Shoe inserts that support the arch may be recommended. Surgery may be necessary if conservative treatments fail and may include:
- Tenosynovectomy: The inflamed tendon tissue is cleaned and removed.
- Tendon transfer: The damaged tendon is replaced by another foot tendon.
- Arthrodesis: In cases where arthritis has developed, the bones are realigned and fused to form a single bone by removing cartilage.
- Osteotomy: Bones of the heel and midfoot may be cut to recreate the arch of the foot.
Why Choose Dr. Bryan Fallis for Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Foot and ankle conditions that affect mobility require specialized expertise. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM provides advanced, patient-focused care for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.
Here’s why patients in Ft. Mitchell and Cincinnati choose Dr. Fallis:
- Board-Certified Expertise: Specialized training in foot and ankle surgery and tendon disorders
- Thorough Diagnostic Approach: Advanced imaging and clinical evaluation to assess tendon damage and foot structure
- Conservative Treatment First: Emphasis on rest, orthotics, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory care
- Advanced Surgical Options: Including tendon repair, tendon transfer, osteotomy, and joint fusion when necessary
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored to your symptoms, activity level, and stage of the condition
- Convenient Regional Locations: Serving Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati communities
Dr. Fallis is dedicated to helping you maintain mobility, prevent progression, and return to your daily activities with confidence.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction FAQs
What does the posterior tibial tendon do?
It supports the arch of your foot and helps stabilize your foot while walking and standing.
What are the early signs of dysfunction?
Pain and swelling along the inside of the ankle, especially during activity, are common early symptoms.
Can posterior tibial tendon dysfunction cause flatfoot?
Yes, as the tendon weakens or tears, the arch can collapse, leading to flatfoot deformity.
Is surgery always required?
No, early stages are often successfully treated with non-surgical methods such as orthotics and physical therapy.
How is this condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound.
What happens if it’s left untreated?
It can progress to severe deformity, chronic pain, and arthritis, making treatment more complex.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Don’t let foot pain or arch collapse affect your mobility and quality of life. Get expert care from Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio.
Convenient locations in Northern Kentucky & Greater Cincinnati
Call today to schedule your consultation
Flexible appointment availability
Take the first step toward restoring your foot strength and stability—contact our office today for personalized posterior tibial tendon treatment and long-term relief.
