Anterior Tibial Tendinitis

What is Anterior Tibial Tendinitis?

Anterior tibial tendinitis refers to inflammation of the anterior tibial tendon, which is located in the front of the leg and connects the anterior tibial muscle to the ankle. This tendon is responsible for lifting the foot and helping with ankle movement. Tendinitis occurs when the tendon becomes irritated and inflamed, usually due to overuse or trauma.

Causes of Anterior Tibial Tendinitis

Common causes include:

Overuse: Repetitive activities involving constant upward flexion of the foot, such as running, especially on hard or inclined surfaces, can cause overuse of the anterior tibial tendon.
Traumatic injuries: Impacts or ankle sprains can inflame the tendon.
Biomechanical misalignment: Alignment problems in the feet, such as flat feet or posture problems, can overload the anterior tibial tendon.
Inadequate footwear: Using footwear that doesn't offer adequate support or is not suitable for the activity being performed can contribute to tendinitis.

Symptoms of Anterior Tibial Tendinitis

Typical symptoms include:

Localized pain: Pain in the front of the ankle and upper leg, which may worsen with activities involving foot lifting (inclined planes) or running.
Swelling: Mild swelling in the area around the anterior tibial tendon.
Stiffness: Sensation of stiffness and discomfort in the front of the leg, especially after periods of inactivity.
Sensitivity: Feeling of tenderness when touching the tendon area.

Diagnosis of Anterior Tibial Tendinitis

To diagnose this condition, doctors use:

Physical examination: Assessment of pain, tenderness, and swelling in the anterior part of the ankle and leg. The doctor may perform specific tests to verify tendon functionality and response.
Imaging tests: Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to visualize inflammation and check the condition of the anterior tibial tendon, as well as rule out other possible injuries.

Treatment of Anterior Tibial Tendinitis

Treatment can vary depending on the severity of tendinitis and response to initial treatment:

Conservative: Includes rest, ice application, and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation. Physical therapy is recommended to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve anterior tibial tendon flexibility.
Activity modification: Reducing or modifying activities that cause stress on the tendon can help recovery. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, can be temporary alternatives.
Appropriate footwear: Use of footwear with good support and, if necessary, orthotics to correct biomechanical problems and reduce load on the anterior tibial tendon.

Prevention of Anterior Tibial Tendinitis

Some preventive measures include:

Strengthening and stretching: Perform regular exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and stretch the anterior tibial tendon.
Warm-up and technique: Do proper warm-up before physical activities and adjust running technique or other physical activities to avoid excessive stress on the tendon.
Appropriate footwear: Use appropriate footwear that offers adequate support and cushioning to reduce impact on the tendon.

Conclusion

Anterior tibial tendinitis can cause significant pain and discomfort in the anterior part of the ankle and leg. Identifying symptoms early and seeking medical evaluation are essential steps for effective treatment. With appropriate treatment and preventive measures, most people can relieve pain and recover normal tendon function, safely returning to their daily and sports activities.