Question 1

At What Age Does PTTD Typically Develop?

Accepted Answer

PTTD can strike at any age, but it most commonly shows up in middle adulthood. Here's the breakdown:

Question 2

Best Exercises for PTTD

Accepted Answer

Effective PTTD exercises include toe curls, heel raises, tibialis posterior strengthening, arch lifts, and calf stretches. Start slowly, ice after exercises, and be consistent.

Question 3

Can I Continue Running with PTTD? What Runners Need to Know

Accepted Answer

I want to give you an honest answer: running with PTTD is risky. It's high-impact and puts significant stress on the posterior tibial tendon. Continui

Question 4

Can I Have PTTD During Pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction can develop during pregnancy, and it's more common than you might think.

Question 5

Can I Stand All Day with PTTD? Tips for On-Your-Feet Jobs

Accepted Answer

Standing all day with PTTD is challenging—prolonged standing puts continuous stress on your posterior tibial tendon. But many people with PTTD still

Question 6

Can I test myself for PTTD at home?

Accepted Answer

You can do a few simple checks at home, but remember this isn't a diagnosis. See a podiatrist to be sure.

Question 7

Can I Travel with PTTD? Tips for Air and Car Travel

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can travel with PTTD—but it requires some planning. Whether you're flying or driving, here's how to protect your feet.

Question 8

Can PTTD Affect Both Feet?

Accepted Answer

Yes, PTTD can affect both feet — but it's not the most common presentation. Here's what you need to know about bilateral PTTD.

Question 9

Can PTTD Be Treated Without Surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes — in most cases, surgery can be avoided. Here's the encouraging reality:

Question 10

Do I Need an MRI for PTTD?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Your doctor will determine which imaging tests you need based on your specific situation. Here's what to expect:

Question 11

Do I Need Physical Therapy After PTTD Surgery? The Essential Guide

Accepted Answer

**Yes, physical therapy is essential**—not optional. You won't get the best results from your surgery without proper rehabilitation. PT helps you he

Question 12

Do I Need Surgery for PTTD?

Accepted Answer

Surgery is typically needed only for advanced Stage 3 PTTD when conservative treatments fail. Most people recover with rest, physical therapy, orthotics, and medication.

Question 13

Early Signs of PTTD: What to Watch For

Accepted Answer

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction usually develops gradually, which means there's often a window where you can catch it early and intervene before i

Question 14

How Fast Does PTTD Progress?

Accepted Answer

PTTD progression is different for everyone. While it won't fix itself overnight, untreated PTTD typically worsens over time. Here's what to expect:

Question 15

How Is PTTD Diagnosed? A Complete Guide to the Diagnosis Process

Accepted Answer

Learn what to expect when getting diagnosed with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, including physical exams, imaging tests, and staging.

Question 16

PTTD Recovery Timeline

Accepted Answer

Most people see improvement in 6-12 weeks with conservative treatment. Full recovery can take 3-6 months, while surgical recovery may require 6-12 months of rehabilitation.

Question 17

PTTD vs Flatfoot: What's the Difference?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common questions about PTTD, and the answer matters because one is a medical condition that needs treatment, while the other i

Question 18

What are the Stages of PTTD?

Accepted Answer

PTTD has 3 stages: Stage 1 (mild, pain/swelling), Stage 2 (moderate, flatfoot develops), Stage 3 (severe, rigid flatfoot with arthritis). Early treatment prevents progression.

Question 19

What is Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction?

Accepted Answer

PTTD is a condition where the tendon on the inside of your ankle weakens, causing arch collapse, ankle pain, and flatfoot. It typically affects women over 40 and athletes.

Question 20

What Kind of Orthotics Help PTTD?

Accepted Answer

The right orthotic can make a huge difference in managing PTTD. Here's what works:

Question 21

What Shoes Should I Wear with PTTD? A Practical Guide

Accepted Answer

The right shoes can make a huge difference in managing PTTD. Here's what to look for—and what to avoid.

Question 22

When Can I Drive After PTTD Surgery? A Clear Timeline

Accepted Answer

One of the most common questions people ask after PTTD surgery is when they can get back behind the wheel. It's practical—you need to get to follow-

Question 23

When Can I Return to Work After PTTD Surgery?

Accepted Answer

The answer depends entirely on what type of work you do, which foot had surgery, and how you're healing. Here's a realistic breakdown.

Question 24

When Should I See a Doctor for PTTD?

Accepted Answer

Don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Here's when to get checked out.

Question 25

Where Does PTTD Pain Occur?

Accepted Answer

The pain from posterior tibial tendon dysfunction has a fairly specific location pattern, which helps differentiate it from other foot conditions.

Question 26

Will I Need Crutches After PTTD Surgery? What to Expect

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll need some type of mobility aid after PTTD surgery. How long you need it—and whether you'll use traditional crutches or alternatives—de

Frequently Asked Questions

Basics & Definition

Recovery & Treatment

Symptoms & Self-Check

Exercises & Self-Care

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