Ankle Tendinitis (Tendonitis) – Risk factors, Causes, Symptoms

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Introduction

Ankle Tendinitis (or Tendonitis) is caused due to the inflammation of the tendons around the Ankle joint. There are different groups of tendons in the Ankle which help in maintaining the arch and shape of the foot.

The different groups of tendons are

  • Achilles tendon
  • Peroneal tendon
  • Anterior tibial tendon
  • Posterior tibial tendon
  • Extensor tendon

Risk factors

  • Athletes
  • Sudden increase in exercise intensity
  • Bone spurs
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout or Osteoarthritis
  • Older age group
  • Diabetics
  • Obesity

Causes

1. Acute Injury such as a sprain

2. Daily wear and tear

3. Using soft shoes

4. Chronic ankle instability

5. Inflammatory diseases

Symptoms

The symptoms vary with the group of tendons that are affected.

The commonest tendon to be affected is the Achilles and Peroneal tendon.

Symptoms may include,

  • Pain and tenderness over the affected area
  • Stiffness of joint
  • Restricted range of movements
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty in walking

The pain is usually aggravated and can worsen when doing activities such as walking, running or jogging.

Chronic Tendinitis can cause changes to the structural integrity of the foot and loss of foot arch.

Investigations are often not required to diagnose this illness and can be detected by a doctor’s examination. 

Treatment

This condition is managed conservatively by

1. Rest and immobilisation of Ankle

2. Elevation of limbs

3. Ice fomentation

4. Ankle support with brace

5. Physiotherapy

6. Use of anti-inflammatory medications and Painkillers

Any underlying medical condition that can trigger Tendinitis is also looked into and managed to prevent future episodes.

In case the cause of the Tendinitis is due to a physical factor such as bone spurs, nodules or due to any permanent stretching and damage to the tendon, then surgical intervention may play a role in treatment.

Complications

The commonest complication is typically tendon rupture. Tendon rupture is frequently associated with loss of normal function of the Ankle joint.

In case of tendon rupture, patients are managed by surgical management.

Preventive measures

1. To do stretches prior to walking, running or exercises

2. Wearing appropriate shoes

3. Gradually increasing exercise tolerance

4. Weight reduction in case of obesity

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ankle Tendinitis is a very common condition that can be managed conservatively. Giving adequate rest for the foot is imperative to prevent any complications such as rupture from occurring.

Hence, awareness of the risk factors and prevention who are predisposed to developing this condition is important in reducing a complicated outcome.

FAQs

1. How do you treat Ankle Tendinitis?

Tendinitis is managed conservatively with the help of rest, ice fomentation, ankle support and anti-inflammatory medicines.

2. What are the symptoms of Ankle Tendinitis?

Pain while walking, restricted movement in the Ankle, stiffness in the Ankle and tenderness over the affected area.

3. Is walking good for Ankle Tendinitis?

If there is an active Ankle Tendinitis, it is suggested that the patient has adequate rest until the pain and other symptoms settle. Walking or further stressing the Ankle joint can worsen the condition.
In the long term, once the symptoms have settled, daily walking can help in maintaining the integrity and health of the Ankle joint.

4. Can Ankle Tendinitis be cured?

Yes, Ankle Tendinitis can be resolved completely. Exercises and other preventive measures will help in stopping future episodes.

5. Does an ankle brace help Tendinitis?

An ankle brace can provide stability to the joint and can provide some relief in Tendinitis.


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The Information including but not limited to text, graphics, images and other material contained on this blog are intended for education and awareness only. No material on this blog is intended to be a substitute for professional medical help including diagnosis or treatment. It is always advisable to consult medical professional before relying on the content. Neither the Author nor Star Health and Allied Insurance Co. Ltd accepts any responsibility for any potential risk to any visitor/reader.

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