#extensor tendinopathy

Extensor tendonitis is a common problem that causes pain across the top of the foot. 

This form of foot tendonitis is caused by inflammation or irritation of the tendons that pull the toes up.

Typically, Extensor Tendonitis Podiatrists of the tendonitis develops due to repeated friction across the top of the foot or excessive pressure from a poorly-fitting shoe. 

Here, we will look at the common causes, symptoms and treatment options for this common foot problem.  

Causes of Extensor Tendinopathy/Tendonitis

Overuse is the direct cause. Repetitive strain causes the Extensor tendonitis to become inflamed and eventually degenerate. However, there are a number of factors which may increase the chances of injury. These include:

Footwear

Wearing badly fitting shoes, especially with the laces tied too tightly. This causes excess pressure on the top of patient foot.

Training

A sudden change in training, particularly running uphill. Running on a treadmill means someone can run for long periods on an incline.

When person run uphill you have to lift foot higher than normal, therefore resulting in higher stresses through the extensor muscles and tendons.

Running downhill the muscles work eccentrically which again places stress on the extensor tendons as can running on ice or slippery surfaces.

Symptoms of Extensor Tendinopathy/Tendonitis

The most common symptom of extensor tendonitis, whether it occurs in the foot or the hand, is pain. In the feet, the pain is usually localized to the top of the foot, usually close to the center of the foot. In the hands, pain tends to occur on the top of the hand.

Other symptoms of extensor tendonitis include:

·         redness, warmth or swelling near the injury

·         increased discomfort with activity

·         crepitus, which is a crunchy feeling or sound over the affected tendon

·         stiffness of the joint

Diagnosing extensor tendonitis usually requires a physical exam and history with a physician. The doctor will ask questions about the pain and other symptoms.

Diagnosis and Tests

 To properly diagnose a foot injury, it may need to see an orthopedic specialist Extensor Tendonitis Podiatrists , who is trained to detect and treat foot and ankle injuries in. During the exam, the doctor will:

·         Ask about the injury, ask how foot feels now, and when it hurts most

·         Examine your foot and ask you to move it in certain ways

·         Recommend imaging tests such as an:

o    X-ray to check for broken bones and look for other damage

o    MRI or CT scan if there is any question about which part of the foot is injured or the severity of the injury

 Physiotherapy Treatment for An Extensor Tendinopathy.

Most physiotherapist in Extensor Tendonitis Podiatrists will be able to diagnose and provide management options for extensor tendinopathy. It may require referral for further examinations to rule out other possible causes of major pain. Treatment can include:

Proprioceptive Exercise

Proprioception is the perception or awareness of the position and movement of the body. The foot and ankle joints are examples of the more common sites of poor proprioception following an ankle sprain.

Proprioceptive ability is often lost or diminished following an injury or surgery. Proprioception needs to be re-learned to maximize recovery after an injury or surgery in order for a joint to return completely to or near its pre-injury level

Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy is a physical therapeutic treatment whereby electrical stimulation is applied to nerves and muscle-motor fibres via electro-pads placed on the skin. There are different types of electrotherapeutic devices in rehabilitation clinics today, with Extensor Tendonitis Podiatrists in Dallas, TX being one of the most popular options.

Electrotherapeutic programs, utilizing prescribed variations in electrical frequencies and intensities, serve to interrupt, alter or induce specific electrical impulses in order to affect the perception of pain and/or facilitate wound healing and muscle rehabilitation. 

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is the use of water, both internally and externally and at varying temperatures, for health purposes. Also known as water therapy, hydrotherapy includes such treatments as saunas, steam baths, foot baths, contrast therapy, hot and cold showers, and water therapy.

Range of Movement Exercises

Keeping your feet strong and flexible can help reduce foot and ankle pain, reduce muscle soreness, improve overall foot health, and keep active.

Exercises that improve range of motion and help limber up your feet may reduce your chance of getting hurt. Slow and gentle stretches will improve your flexibility. Strength exercises will allow muscles to provide better support and protection for foot as a whole.