On the inside of the ankle are tendons that support the lower leg and the foot. These tendons help to keep the arch of the foot and the ankle stable whilst walking and moving. The posterior tibial muscle plays an important role in this.

If this tendon is subjected to excessive strain, irritation may occur. This is often referred to as tendonitis. In many cases, it mainly involves tendon irritation or tendon strain.

Irritation of a tendon on the inside of the ankle is often caused by the tendon being under tension for too long. This can lead to irritation or strain.

Possible causes include:

a foot that tilts inwards too much;
flat feet;
stiff or weak muscles;
overload;
excess weight;
shoes with insufficient support;
a trip or a sprained ankle;
building up walking or exercise too quickly;
standing or walking for long periods.

The pain is usually felt on the inside of the ankle. Sometimes the pain radiates to the inside of the foot or the lower leg.

You may notice that:

walking or standing for long periods is painful;
finding it harder to exercise;
causes symptoms when climbing stairs;
standing on tiptoes is difficult or painful;
the inside of the ankle feels swollen or warm;
the arch of the foot becomes tired or painful;
you are less steady on your feet or when walking.

If you experience pain on the inside of your ankle, it is important to keep moving as much as you can manage. Rest may be necessary for a short time, but it is usually not necessary to stop moving completely. Alternate between moving and exercising with sufficient periods of rest.

Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy body weight can help to reduce the strain on the foot and ankle. Gradually build up your walking, exercise and prolonged standing. This gives the tendon the chance to strengthen without being put under too much strain again.

Long-term pain or uncertainty can affect your confidence in walking and moving. A gentle and clear rehabilitation plan helps you to gradually increase the level of physical activity you can manage. Our lifestyle coaches can work with you to consider lifestyle changes that can support your recovery, such as sleeping better, eating more healthily and working towards a healthy weight.

You can reduce the strain on the tendon yourself by temporarily adjusting your activities.

To reduce symptoms, you can:

temporarily restricting the time spent standing or walking;
build up your exercise gradually;
wear sturdy shoes;
don’t keep walking in worn-out shoes;
get plenty of rest if the pain gets worse;
Perform the exercises gently if they do not cause any sharp pain.

Our podiatrists We will examine the position of your feet, the strain on the inside of your ankle and your gait. We will also look at the shoes you are wearing.

Treatment may consist of:

podiatric insoles to support the arch of the foot and the tendon;
shoe advice;
tape to provide temporary relief;
advice on stress and recovery;
exercises for strength and stability;
ultrasound examination;
dry needling;
podo manual therapy;
collaboration with a physiotherapist.

Together, we’ll look at how you can continue to exercise safely whilst ensuring your tendon gets sufficient rest.

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Tendon inflammation or irritation on the inside of the ankle

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