Tibialis posterior tendinosis, degeneration of the tibialis posterior tendon, is the most common cause of pain behind the medial malleolus.

The posterior tibial tendon lies immediately behind the medial malleolus. Degeneration results from long-standing biomechanical problems, such as excessive pronation often in obese people. The tendon can also be involved by primary inflammatory disorders, such as RA or gout.

Symptoms and Signs

Early on, patients experience occasional pain behind the medial malleolus. Over time, the pain becomes severe, with painful swelling behind the medial malleolus. Normal standing, walking, and standing on the toes become difficult.

Diagnosis

• MRI

Clinical findings suggest the diagnosis. Palpation of the tendon in an inverted–plantar flexed position usually elicits pain. Standing on the toes is usually painful and may not be possible if the tendon is ruptured. Pain and swelling behind the medial malleolus, especially with tibialis posterior tendon pain on palpation, are highly suggestive. MRI or ultrasonography can confirm injury to the tendon and its extent.

Treatment

• Orthotics and braces or surgery

Complete rupture requires surgery if normal function is the goal. Surgery is especially important in young active patients with acute tears. Conservative therapy consists of mechanically off-loading the tendon by using orthotics and ankle braces. Corticosteroid injections exacerbate the degenerative process (see Sidebar 1: Foot and Ankle Disorders: Considerations for Using Corticosteroid Injections). If the tendon is inflamed, rest and aggressive anti-inflammatory therapy are warranted.

Sidebar 1
Considerations for Using Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections should be used judiciously to avoid adverse effects. Injectable corticosteroids should be reserved for inflammation, which is not present in most foot disorders. Because the tarsus, ankle, retrocalcaneal space, and dorsum of the toes have little connective tissue between the skin and underlying bone, injection of insoluble corticosteroids into these structures may cause depigmentation, atrophy, or ulceration, especially in elderly patients with peripheral arterial disease. Insoluble corticosteroids can be given deeply rather than superficially with greater safety (eg, in the heel pad, tarsal canal, or metatarsal interspaces). The foot should be immobilized for a few days after tendon sheaths are injected. Unusual resistance to injection suggests injection into a tendon. Repeated injection into a tendon should be avoided because the tendon may weaken (partially tear), predisposing to subsequent rupture.

Last full review/revision March 2008 by Kendrick Alan Whitney, DPM

Content last modified March 2008