Telltale Signs of Foot or Ankle Tendonitis

Foot and ankle tendonitis can cause significant discomfort and impact your ability to walk or perform everyday tasks. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes inflamed, often due to overuse or repetitive strain. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or someone who spends a lot of time on your feet, tendonitis is something that can affect anyone. 

Recognizing the warning signs can help you receive the necessary treatment before the condition worsens. Dr. Eric Gilbertson, DPM, FACFAS, at Renew Foot & Ankle in Minnesota, can help you find relief from tendonitis and get back to your routine. 

What is tendonitis?

Tendons are thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. In the foot and ankle, these tendons help with movement and stability. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, typically due to overexertion or repetitive stress. 

Common causes include intense physical activity, poor footwear, or improper posture while walking or running, which can overstress the tendon, leading to microtears, swelling, pain, and reduced mobility.

Signs of foot and ankle tendonitis

Tendonitis doesn’t always start with severe pain. Early signs are often subtle, especially if you’re used to being active. Watch for:

Pain with movement

The most noticeable symptom of tendonitis is pain, particularly when moving the affected joint. Initially, the pain may be mild and only occur during activity. However, as the condition worsens, the pain can become more persistent. 

You may experience a sharp pain that worsens with movement or pressure, particularly during activities such as running, jumping, or even walking. If you have tendonitis, you may also experience discomfort when pushing off with your foot, such as when walking uphill or climbing stairs.

Swelling and tenderness 

Another common sign of tendonitis is swelling in the area surrounding the tendon. The affected area may feel warm to the touch, and you might notice some redness or increased tenderness. The swelling is a result of the body’s inflammatory response to the damaged tendon. 

The affected area may feel more sensitive when pressure is applied, making it uncomfortable to wear shoes or stand for long periods. In some cases, the swelling can make it difficult to bend or fully move your foot or ankle.

Stiffness and limited range of motion

Tendonitis often leads to stiffness in the foot or ankle, making it harder to move or flex the joint. You might notice that your foot feels “tight” or restricted, especially after periods of rest. It can affect your range of motion, which means you may find it challenging to perform everyday activities, such as walking, running, or standing for extended periods of time. 

Grating sensation

Crepitus is a medical term that refers to a grating or crackling sound or sensation that occurs when tendons move. While this is less common, you can sometimes feel it when you move the affected foot or ankle. The sensation occurs when the tendon moves over damaged tissue or bone, causing pain. 

Weakness 

When tendonitis develops, you may begin to experience weakness in the affected area. The tendons play a critical role in stabilizing the foot and ankle, so if they are compromised, the joint may feel unstable. 

The weakness can increase your risk of falls or other injuries, as you may not have the same control or strength in your movements. In some cases, you may feel as though your foot is giving out when walking or moving in certain directions.

Preventing tendonitis in the future

To avoid developing tendonitis, it’s essential to practice proper foot care. That includes wearing supportive shoes that fit well and provide adequate cushioning. If you're an athlete or frequently engage in physical activity, be sure to warm up before exercise and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. 

Strengthening exercises for your feet and ankles can also help improve tendon strength and prevent future injuries.

What to do if you suspect tendonitis

If you recognize these signs in your foot or ankle, it’s crucial to take action. The first step is to rest the affected area and avoid any activities that cause pain. Applying ice and elevating the foot can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, can also provide relief. 

If symptoms persist or worsen, call the office or schedule an appointment online with Dr. Gilbertson. He may recommend physical therapy, custom orthotics, or other treatments to address the root cause of the tendonitis and improve your mobility.