Foot & Ankle · Trenton, MI
Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
Physical therapy for posterior tibial tendonitis at Total Body Rehab — evaluation-driven, one-on-one care in Trenton, serving all of Downriver.
The posterior tibial tendon runs behind the inner ankle and holds up your arch. When it's overloaded, the inner ankle and arch ache — and if it's ignored long enough, the arch can progressively flatten (adult-acquired flatfoot).
Caught early, this is a very treatable tendon problem. The stakes of ignoring it are what make timely care worth it.
Common signs & symptoms
- Pain and swelling behind the inner ankle bone
- Aching along the arch with standing and walking
- Difficulty or pain rising onto tiptoes
- A flattening arch or inward-rolling ankle
- Fatigue in the foot by day's end
How physical therapy helps
Treatment progressively strengthens the tendon and the arch's supporting muscles, with short-term orthotic or taping support to reduce load while capacity rebuilds. Calf strength, balance, and footwear all get addressed — and we monitor arch posture over time to confirm the tendon is keeping up.
Treatments we use
- Progressive tendon loading
- Arch support & taping
- Foot intrinsic strengthening
- Balance training
- Footwear guidance
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I do a single-leg heel raise on that side?
That's the signature test — the posterior tibial tendon powers and locks the arch for push-off. Restoring that capacity is a central rehab goal.
Do I need orthotics forever?
Usually as a bridge, not a life sentence — support reduces tendon load while strengthening rebuilds it. Some patients with structural changes benefit longer term; we'll be honest about which you are.
What happens if this goes untreated?
Progressive cases can flatten the arch and eventually need significant surgery. That trajectory is exactly what early rehab exists to prevent.
This page is general education, not a diagnosis. For advice about your specific situation, schedule an evaluation or talk with your physician.