23 January 2023
 Categories: , Blog

Tendonitis is a relatively common foot problem that is characterised by damage to the tendons that connect the muscles and bones in your feet. When tendons are damaged they become inflamed, and this causes pain and restricts how your foot is able to move. Inflammation makes it difficult for enough oxygen to reach the damaged section of your foot, and this can make healing difficult without treatment. Tendonitis can occur as a result of too much pressure being put on your feet, so those who play high-impact sports and pregnant women are particularly susceptible to the condition. Flat feet and conditions that cause inflammation can also lead to tendonitis developing. Your doctor can prescribe you painkillers and anti-inflammatories, but it's often the case that additional treatment is required, so working with a podiatrist can help you get long-term relief from the pain and stiffness caused by tendonitis.

What To Expect At Your Podiatry Appointment

When you visit a podiatrist they will examine your feet to determine the range of motion you have and how much inflammation is present. They will also check your foot arches to determine if the arches have collapsed, which can put too much pressure on the tendons. They may arrange for you to have a foot X-ray before beginning treatment if they suspect a fracture or other structural abnormality, and they will take details of any other health conditions you have to help determine what has caused tendonitis to develop.

Treating Tendonitis

Your podiatrist will recommend a treatment plan based on the foot exam they carry out during your initial appointment. They may initially recommend a period of complete rest if the inflammation in your foot is severe. Rest will help reduce the inflammation quickly, and this can allow healing to begin. Your podiatrist may also show you how to do a series of targeted foot exercises that are designed to improve the range of movement in your foot and increase blood flow to the foot, which can speed up the healing process. Exercise can also strengthen the muscles in your foot, which can help prevent future bouts of tendonitis by relieving some of the pressure felt on the sole of your foot when the muscles are weak. If you have flat foot arches, the podiatrist can measure your feet for custom-made orthotics, which support your feet and reduce pressure on the areas that are inflamed.

Tendonitis can worsen without treatment, so if you're experiencing foot pain, get in touch with a podiatrist.