Posterior tibial tendon injury (tendinitis) typically causes pain along the medial or inside part of the ankle and extending into the back of the foot. Most commonly, these injuries are due to a flatfoot deformity. When the foot is flat, degeneration or wear and tear occurs at the tendon over time, as the stresses are increased through the tendon. For this reason, the focus and treatments is mostly on decreasing stress to the tendon by increasing the arch. Increasing the arch is often achieve orthotics and by adjusting activities and maintaining a healthy weight. Further treatments may also be available.

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Postoperative Recovery for Posterior Tibial Tendon Injury Surgery

• Weight-bearing is restricted for between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on the procedures performed.
• In order to prevent weight-bearing, crutches, a walker, a wheelchair, or a scooter type device called a roll about may be used.
• There will be a bulky splint applied to the leg for two weeks after surgery.
• Your first follow up visit will be at approximately 2 weeks to remove the stitches.
• A removable CAM walker boot is typically applied at this time.
• If the surgery is on your left ankle, you should be able to drive an automatic vehicle at two weeks.
• You may begin to walk with the boot at about 3 weeks, depending upon your level of discomfort, and the instructions given to you.
• Physical therapy may be recommended.
• There will be swelling of the foot and ankle for up to one year.
• You will continue to improve your strength and movement for about one year after the surgery.
• You can expect to have some soreness and aching for about 6 months after surgery.

Post Operative Course

Day of surgery

• Foot wrapped in bulky splint; ice, elevate, and take pain medication.
• Expect numbness in foot for 12 to 24 hours.
• Bloody drainage is expected.

Day 14

• First follow up in the office, X-rays taken, dressing changed, sutures/staples removed.
• Boot is applied to the foot, and frequently weight bearing as tolerated is permitted.

6 – 8 weeks

• Full weight in the boot, start physical therapy.
• By 8 weeks you may start to transition into a regular shoe with an orthotic arch support.