Posterior tibial tendonitis

[annaren]

Thanks so much for your reply. I fully appreciate that it is not possible to give a full medical diagnosises over the internet but I guess when I am anxious I just look for a bit or reassurance!
I am not sure if it is def tarsal nerve or tendon and he said that if it hasnt cleared up after Poland he would like to doctor to assess to see if it is the nerve or not.
When I first got the orthotic it felt strange and then after a couple of days it was fine. The it flaired up after the physio, then he took them away to increase the arch (which was always the plan as the actual orthotic is a low arch as he wanted me to get used to increasing the arch gradually) and the pain got really bad and both feet felt really sore all over, THEN (!) i got them back and they felt strange but at least I could walk, then I increased my walking as he said and theey still felt strange but could tolerate them although left foot didnt feel much better, then increased walking and right foot got bit sore in Post tibial tendon area. Now recommendation is to wear my new trainers but walking boots when out walking but carry on with insoles. I questioned whether I shoul take out the additional padding to increase the arch but he wants me to carry on for a bit (had them in for 10 days now). The additional padding is about 3-4mm on my right and may 6-7 on the left. It is quite soft. HE said that when I get back from Poland he will put a proper top on them but hadnt done that previosuly as it cant be taken off and on adn wanted to build up the arch gradually.
An additional think which I have not mentioned is that I have suffered from very severe anorexia for 20 years adn thus my weight has been dangerously low for an exceedingly long time. HOWEVER I have managed to gain quite a significant amount recently and my aim is to get to a healthy BMI. The podiatrist thinks that that may be contributing to the problem (weak bones adn perhaps degenerated fibres in the tendon, low fatty paddiing on foot, increased healing time).
Historically I have had many foor problems, i.e plantar faciatis, stress fractures etc adn so he thinks that this is also reason to keep going with orthotic.
Anyway, after that long story I think you have a better picture but not sure if you can say any more or give me any more help from Canada!
MANY MANY MANY thanks,
Anna

[sharileedahl]

As you said, I don't think I can say much more either. Sounds like you guys are trying to figure things out....that's the important part is that you are still working actively to find a solution.
Tib.post. can be a real "trouble-maker" when there are changes to footwear ( or not wearing any) but it should improve. It is a muscle that is actively involved in supporting your arch so as it strengthens up and gets used to its new role with the orthotics it SHOULD improve. Since the orthotic is soft, the pressure from it shouldn't be further irritating the nerves in the area (I wouldn't think so anyway).
All I can say is... it sounds like you're on the right track... but it's a process. Your requirement for increased walking in Poland makes it a wee bit more difficult but not impossible. Boots will help; although your feet are getting used to the orthotics, they will help; hiking poles may help if you are able to use them.
Just want to add one more thing... my cousin has a history of anorexia which is when I learned a little about it...I don't pretend to know alot. All I can say is you are to be commended for your goal and I wish you the best of luck with that goal as well as the issue with your feet. Take care!!