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?
2. What are the symptoms of Ankle Tendinitis?
3. Is walking good for Ankle Tendinitis?
In the long term, once the symptoms have settled, daily walking can help in maintaining the integrity and health of the Ankle joint.
