Posterior Tibial Tendon Problems - Foot Problems Message Board

b51kitty · 10-03-2006, 06:13 AM

I too suffer from the same thing, just not flat-footed. I have done everything possible, next is surgery. It is set for a tendon transfer, however, I am getting a second opinion. It sounds so severe. I am able to walk and all, using orthotics, and some days alot of pain (taking inflammatory) while others not too bad, which in turn lets me rethink about having any surgery at all. It would require using next tendon (that operates toes), break the heel, reposition it, insert 2 screws and off work 3 months. That... I don't like. I am just not sure anymore at all. I've been dealing with the severe swelling at ankle (inside foot) and just want it to get well. I've heard of using a cadavear (sp?) tendon, but this Dr. says they don't do that. I am not sure. Has ANYONE ever had a tendon transfer and what is your outcome?? Is it worth it? Or is it just a short-lived thing? Thanks. b51kitty

surelynine · 11-25-2006, 11:43 AM

I have been having inner ankle pain on and off for about 2 years, then it became constant. I finally went to see an OS who ordered an MRI, which shows a partial tear of the posterior tibial tendon and fluid accumulation in the tendon sheath. I asked him about non-invasive possibilities such as orthotics or braces, and he said that they would be of no use since the tendon is torn. He referred me to a foot and ankle specialist who said the same thing. The foot and ankle Dr., who is the author of the text book on foot and surgery that medical schools use, took x-rays, did some simple testing and looked at my MRI's and recommended tendon transfer, calcaneal osteotomy and synovectmy. I am scheduled for surgery on Dec. 6. He also told me that the longer I put off surgery that the worse it would get and eventually it would not be fixable with the above mentioned procedures, but instead would require fusion. He said I would be on crutches for 5 weeks, then in a walking cast for 5 weeks. I hope this information is helpful to any of you that are wondering what to do.

MFord1206 · 11-25-2006, 12:10 PM

Hi Surely-

I had the exact same thing show up on my MRI...partial tear and fluid. That was over a year ago, and things haven't changed. I have worn custom orthotics for about a year, and they do help some, but I still do have pain and swelling daily in my arch and area around the tendon. I am currently recovering from my second ankle ligament reconstruction surgery (3 months ago). I asked my OS (foot and ankle guy) if he would fix the tendon problem when he did the last surgery and he said no because a partial tear did have the ability to heal if I wore my orthotics religiously. He said only a complete tear warranted immediate surgery, and I may need surgery in the future to correct it and my fallen arch, but wouldn't mess with it now (I'm only 20). Anyways, just wanted to share my update, as I posted this thread quite a while back. I hope your surgery goes well on the 6th (thats my b-day..lol). Please keep me updated on how it goes!

Take Care!

Megan

surelynine · 11-26-2006, 11:40 PM

Megan
Hope you have a terrific birthday! I will definitely keep you posted on the surgery. I am so looking forward to being able to walk without the constant pain.
Rita

b51kitty · 11-27-2006, 06:12 AM

Please let me know how you are after the surgery. I hope it is a fix. I am going for a 2nd opinion late Dec. I am not sure what to do yet. The surgery you are having is exactly what the 1st Dr. was going to do.