Understanding Tendinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Tendinitis is a common condition that affects many people’s feet and ankles, often leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities. At Podiatry Hub, we regularly see patients with different types of tendinitis, and early treatment is key to reducing discomfort and preventing further injury.
What is Tendinitis?
Tendinitis occurs when a tendon—the thick cord that connects muscle to bone—becomes irritated or inflamed. In the feet and ankles, tendinitis often develops from overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden increases in physical activity. Common types include Achilles tendinitis, posterior tibial tendinitis, and peroneal tendinitis.
Symptoms of Tendinitis
Tendinitis can develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the cause. Typical symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness along the tendon (worsens with movement or pressure)
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Swelling or warmth around the tendon
- Reduced strength or difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
If untreated, tendinitis can progress and may increase the risk of tendon rupture.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to tendinitis, such as:
- Overuse from sports, running, or prolonged standing
- Sudden increase in exercise intensity or duration
- Poor footwear without proper support
- Foot biomechanics such as flat feet or high arches
- Age-related tendon degeneration
Treatment Options
Treatment for tendinitis aims to reduce pain and inflammation while supporting tendon healing. Common approaches include:
- Rest and Activity Modification
Allowing the tendon time to recover is essential. Reducing high-impact activity and substituting low-impact exercise can help.
- Ice and Anti-inflammatory Care
Applying ice packs and, if appropriate, using anti-inflammatory medication can reduce pain and swelling.
- Supportive Footwear and Orthotics
Wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotics can correct foot mechanics and reduce stress on the tendon.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
A podiatrist can guide you through tailored exercises to restore flexibility and improve tendon strength.
- Professional Podiatry Treatment
If symptoms persist, additional therapies such as strapping, bracing, or referral for physiotherapy may be recommended. In rare and severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’re experiencing persistent tendon pain, swelling, or stiffness that doesn’t improve with rest, it’s important to seek professional care. Early treatment can prevent long-term issues and get you back to your regular activities sooner.
FAQs – Tendinitis in the Foot and Ankle
- What are the first signs of tendinitis?
Early signs include pain, tenderness, and swelling along the tendon, often worse with movement or pressure. You may also notice stiffness in the morning or after rest. - What causes tendinitis in the foot?
Common causes include overuse (running, sports, or prolonged standing), sudden increases in activity, poor footwear, and foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches. - How do you treat foot tendinitis at home?
Rest, applying ice, and wearing supportive shoes can help reduce symptoms. However, if pain persists beyond a few days, it’s best to see a podiatrist for tailored treatment. - Does tendinitis ever fully heal?
Yes—most cases improve with rest, treatment, and exercise therapy. However, untreated tendinitis may become chronic or lead to tendon rupture. - How long does foot tendinitis take to heal?
Recovery time varies depending on severity. Mild cases may resolve in a few weeks, while more severe or chronic tendinitis can take several months to fully improve. - Can walking make tendinitis worse?
Yes. Walking long distances or wearing unsupportive shoes can aggravate tendinitis. Reducing activity and switching to low-impact exercise may help while healing. - What’s the difference between tendinitis and tendonitis?
They are the same condition—just two different spellings. Both describe inflammation of a tendon. - Should I see a podiatrist or physiotherapist for tendinitis?
Both can help, but podiatrists specialise in foot mechanics, footwear, and orthotics that address the root cause, while physiotherapists often focus on strengthening and rehabilitation.
👉 At Podiatry Hub, we provide expert care for tendinitis and other foot and ankle conditions, with treatment tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Dylan McDonald (Podiatrist)