PTTD Treatment in Chillicothe, Ohio

Expert treatment for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) and adult-acquired flatfoot. Dr. Storts provides comprehensive care from early intervention to surgical correction.

To schedule your appointment, contact our team at (740) 851-4003 today.

Call (740) 851-4003 Schedule Your Appointment

UNDERSTANDING PTTD

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) is a progressive condition where the tendon that supports the arch of the foot becomes inflamed, stretched, or torn. Without treatment, PTTD leads to adult-acquired flatfoot deformity—a painful collapse of the arch that affects walking and standing.

Stages of PTTD:

Stage 1: Pain and swelling along the inner ankle and arch, but the foot shape is normal
Stage 2: The arch begins to flatten and the foot turns outward
Stage 3: The foot is rigid and flatfoot deformity is permanent
Stage 4: Arthritis develops in the ankle joint

Early treatment is critical to prevent progression to later stages where treatment options become more limited.

TREATMENT BY STAGE

Early Stages (1-2):

Custom orthotics with arch support
Ankle bracing (AFO)
Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
Anti-inflammatory treatment
Regenerative medicine (PRP, stem cell) to promote tendon healing

Advanced Stages (3-4):

Surgical tendon repair or transfer
Bone realignment procedures (osteotomy)
Joint fusion for rigid deformity with arthritis

Dr. Storts, as a board-certified podiatric surgeon (FACFAS), has extensive experience treating all stages of PTTD.

EARLY INTERVENTION IS KEY

If you notice pain and swelling along the inner ankle, or if your arch seems to be getting flatter, don't wait. Early treatment can prevent the need for surgery.

Call (740) 851-4003 to schedule your evaluation.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Bring your insurance card, photo ID, a list of your current medications, and any prior imaging or records.
Bring the shoes you wear most often, along with any orthotics or braces you already use.
A typical evaluation includes reviewing your symptoms and medical history, examining the inner ankle and arch, and looking at your foot position standing and while walking.
Weight-bearing X-rays may be used if they are needed to assess alignment, and advanced imaging may be ordered when more detail about the tendon is required.
Dr. Storts explains the stage of the condition and the options that apply, from orthotics, bracing and physical therapy through to surgical treatment, and arranges any follow-up.

FAQS ABOUT POSTERIOR TIBIAL TENDON DYSFUNCTION

Q. Does posterior tibial tendon dysfunction always require surgery?

No. In the early stages, treatment includes custom orthotics with arch support, ankle bracing, physical therapy and strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatory treatment, and regenerative medicine. Surgical tendon repair, bone realignment, or fusion are used in the advanced stages.

Q. Do you have appointments outside of normal work hours?

Thursday hours run until 6:00 PM and Saturday hours are 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Other days are by appointment. Call (740) 851-4003 and we will find a time that works around your schedule.

Q. What are the signs of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction?

Early signs include pain and swelling along the inner ankle and arch. As the condition progresses the arch may begin to flatten and the foot may turn outward, and standing or walking for long periods can become more difficult.

Q. How is posterior tibial tendon dysfunction evaluated?

Evaluation generally includes reviewing your symptoms and medical history, examining the inner ankle and arch, and watching how you stand and walk. Imaging such as X-rays may be used if it is needed to assess bone alignment, and advanced imaging may be ordered when more detail about the tendon is required.

CONTACT BENDS FOOT AND ANKLE TODAY

Call us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward optimal wellness.