Ankle Pain & a Flattening Arch? Posterior Tibial Tendonitis Explained — and Treated
- J&J Therapy
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
What is the posterior tibial tendon—and why does it hurt?
The posterior tibial tendon (PTT) runs from your inner calf, around the inside of the ankle, and attaches to the mid‑foot. It helps support the arch and keeps the ankle stable, particularly when you walk, run or stand on tiptoes.Overuse, an ankle sprain, sudden weight gain, long hours on hard floors, or very tight shoes can irritate the tendon. Untreated irritation may lead to PTTD / adult‑acquired flatfoot.
Do these symptoms sound familiar?
✅ Pain/tenderness at the inner ankle or along the arch
✅ Worse when standing on tiptoes, walking long distances, or after sport
✅ Flattening arch or shoes leaning inwards (over‑pronation)
✅ Swelling or a tired, achy foot by day’s end
Red flags — seek urgent care/GP if you feel a sudden “pop”, cannot push up on tiptoe, have marked swelling/bruising after injury, fever or spreading redness.
Why prompt treatment matters
If the arch collapses, your walking pattern changes. That can trigger foot and ankle pain, and even knee or back pain due to altered posture. Early care prevents progression.
How J&J Therapy treats PTTD
We address both the irritated tendon and the underlying loading habits.
Service | Why it helps | Best for |
Therapeutic/Corrective Massage | Releases tight calf & foot muscles; improves glide around the tendon | Early pain, post‑activity stiffness |
Shockwave Therapy | Stimulates tendon healing; reduces stubborn pain | Symptoms persisting >6 weeks or recurring |
Physiotherapy & Corrective Exercise | Builds arch support & ankle control; graded loading plan | Returning to walking/running; prevention |
Ultrasound Therapy | Aids tissue healing and inflammation control | Irritable phases with swelling |
Electrical Stimulation (TENS/EMS) | Short‑term pain relief, helps tolerance to exercise | Night pain or sensitive periods |
Lymphatic Massage | Assists swelling/oedema management | Puffy, warm inner ankle |
Your step‑by‑step plan with us
Consultation & assessment – gait check, single‑leg heel‑raise, palpation of the PTT.
Hands‑on care – corrective massage ± shockwave/ultrasound to calm hot spots.
Exercise coaching – simple daily plan (see below) and footwear guidance.
Progress review in 1–2 weeks; progress loading; taper hands‑on as you self‑manage.
Simple home routine (safe to start)
Relative rest 3–7 days (avoid long walks, hills, deep calf raises if painful).
Arch activation (“short foot”): gently draw the ball of the big toe towards the heel without curling toes, 5×10‑sec holds.
Calf raises (pain‑free range): 3×10 both feet; progress to single‑leg when comfortable.
Calf & inner‑ankle mobility: gentle stretches 20–30 sec × 3.
Footwear: supportive trainers; consider temporary taping or an arch support/orthotic.
Ice 10–15 min after activity if swollen; warm‑up before walks.
This article is educational and not a diagnosis. If symptoms persist or worsen, see your GP or book an assessment.
FAQs
Is this the same as “flat feet”?Often, yes—adult‑acquired flatfoot commonly involves PTTD, where the arch collapses over time.
Do I have to stop exercise?We modify load, then rebuild strength and control so you can return safely.
When is shockwave used?For stubborn or long‑standing tendon pain or when progress plateaus.
How many sessions will I need?It varies; many feel meaningful improvement within a few visits when hands‑on care is combined with the right exercises.
Ready to stabilise your arch and ease the pain? (CTA)
Book your assessment:
WhatsApp: 07882 943540 (AI‑assisted) / 07935 869938 (English & Korean)
Email: info@jjwellcare.com
Hours: Tue–Wed 9:00–19:20, Fri–Sat 9:00–19:20 (Mon & Thu closed)
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