Getting a Second Opinion for PTTD: When and How to Do It

Getting diagnosed with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction can feel overwhelming, especially when surgery might be on the table. If your doctor has recommended a treatment plan—whether it’s conservative care or surgery—you might wonder: “Should I get a second opinion?”

The short answer? Yes, in most cases, getting a second opinion is a smart move. It’s not about doubting your doctor; it’s about making sure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for your health.

When Should You Get a Second Opinion?

Not every case requires a second opinion, but there are several situations where it’s especially valuable:

This is the most important time to consider a second opinion. Surgery is a major decision, and you want to be absolutely sure it’s necessary. Different surgeons may have different approaches or perspectives on timing. A second opinion can confirm the recommendation or potentially offer alternatives you hadn’t considered.

Your Symptoms Aren’t Improving

If you’ve been following conservative treatment for several months without meaningful improvement, it’s worth seeing another specialist. Maybe there’s a different approach, or perhaps your diagnosis needs refinement.

You’ve Received Conflicting Information

If one doctor says you need surgery and another says you don’t, or if you’ve gotten different opinions about your PTTD stage, a third perspective can help clarify things.

You Feel Uncomfortable or Rushed

Trust your gut. If a doctor is pressuring you into a decision, dismissing your questions, or making you feel rushed, that’s a sign to seek another opinion. You should feel comfortable with your provider and confident in your treatment plan.

You Have a Complex Case

If you have other health conditions (diabetes, arthritis, circulatory issues) that complicate your PTTD, seeing a specialist with experience in complex cases is wise.

It’s Simply Your Preference

There’s nothing wrong with wanting more information. Seeking a second opinion is simply being an informed patient.

How to Find the Right Specialist

Finding the right doctor for a second opinion can feel daunting, but there are practical ways to do it:

Look for Specialists

Not all doctors have the same experience with PTTD. Look for:

  • Podiatrists who specialize in foot and ankle conditions
  • Orthopedic surgeons with foot and ankle fellowship training
  • Sports medicine physicians who treat tendon conditions
  • Academic medical centers often have specialists with more experience with complex cases

Ask for Referrals

Your primary care doctor may be able to refer you to a specialist. You can also ask friends, family, or other healthcare providers for recommendations.

Check Credentials

Look for:

  • Board certification in podiatry or orthopedic surgery
  • Fellowship training in foot and ankle (this indicates specialized expertise)
  • Experience with PTTD specifically (ask how many cases they see per year)
  • Hospital affiliations

Use Professional Resources

  • American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) has a surgeon finder
  • Your insurance company’s provider directory
  • Academic medical centers in your area

Questions to Ask at Your Second Opinion Appointment

Come prepared with questions. Here are some important ones:

About Your Diagnosis

  • What stage is my PTTD? How do you determine this?
  • Are there any additional tests you’d recommend?
  • Is my condition getting worse? How quickly typically?

About Treatment Options

  • What treatment options do you recommend, and why?
  • If surgery: What specific procedure would you perform? Why?
  • What are the pros and cons of each option?
  • What happens if I don’t treat this?

About Experience

  • How many PTTD cases do you treat per year?
  • What’s your success rate with this type of treatment?
  • What complications have you seen?

About Recovery

  • What does recovery look like with each treatment option?
  • How long before I can return to normal activities?
  • What kind of rehabilitation is involved?

About the Future

  • Will this come back after treatment?
  • What ongoing care will I need?
  • What can I do to prevent worsening?

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Being prepared helps you get the most out of your visit:

Medical Records

  • Imaging results (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) on CD if possible
  • Previous doctor notes and diagnoses
  • Any previous treatment records
  • List of medications you’re currently taking

Your Questions

Write them down so you don’t forget anything in the moment.

Symptom Journal

If you’ve been tracking your symptoms, bring that information. Note:

  • When pain started and how it’s progressed
  • What makes it better or worse
  • What activities you can no longer do
  • Any relevant lifestyle factors

Insurance Information

Understand what’s covered and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.

What If the Opinions Differ?

If you get different recommendations, don’t panic. This is actually helpful information. Consider:

  • What are the specific differences? Different surgical approaches? Different timelines?
  • What’s the reasoning behind each opinion? Ask for clear explanations
  • What does your gut say? You know your body and your life circumstances
  • Is there a third option? Sometimes there’s more than two paths forward

You might find that one doctor has more experience, a different perspective, or access to different treatment options. The key is making an informed decision you feel confident about.

Insurance Considerations

Many people worry about insurance coverage for second opinions:

  • Most insurance plans cover second opinions, especially for surgery
  • Check your specific plan before scheduling
  • Get pre-authorization if required by your insurance
  • Keep records of what insurance does and doesn’t cover

If cost is a concern, explain this to the doctor’s office—they may have options or be able to help you navigate insurance.

When a Second Opinion Isn’t Necessary

While getting a second opinion is often wise, there are some situations where it may not be needed:

  • Clear, improving condition: If your PTTD is responding well to conservative treatment and your doctor is confident
  • Emergency situations: When delay would cause harm
  • You’ve already seen multiple specialists: Sometimes three opinions are enough
  • Complete trust: If you have complete confidence in your doctor and their recommendation, that’s valuable too

Being Your Own Advocate

Perhaps the most important thing to remember: you are your own best healthcare advocate. Getting a second opinion isn’t disloyal to your first doctor—it’s taking responsibility for your health.

Doctors are experts, but they don’t live in your body. You know your pain, your limitations, and your goals. Seeking multiple perspectives helps ensure your treatment plan aligns with your life and values.

The Bottom Line

Getting a second opinion for PTTD is almost always a good idea, especially if surgery is recommended. It gives you more information, more confidence, and more control over your health decisions. The process doesn’t have to be complicated—find a specialist, bring your questions, and see what they think.

Your health is worth the extra time and effort. And remember: a good doctor will never discourage you from seeking more information. The best healthcare decisions are made when you feel informed, empowered, and confident in your team.

Sources

  • American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS): Finding a foot and ankle specialist
  • Getting a second opinion: NIH MedlinePlus
  • Always consult with qualified healthcare providers for your specific situation