Question - Ankle Extensor Tendonitis

About a week after I had started using a treadmill with an incline, I had a sudden onset of pain in the front of my ankle which made walking difficult for several weeks.

My podiatrist diagnosed extensor tendonitis. Three years later, it seems fine except when I try to wear a shoe with more than a 1-2" heel. Then the sharp pain starts again and I am only able to walk a couple of steps.

Is there any way to heal this completely or do I need to wear flats for the rest of my life?

Thanks!

Comments for
Question - Ankle Extensor Tendonitis

Average Rating

Click here to add your own comments

Jul 08, 2008
Rating

Is it muscle or joint pain?
by: Bart - SII

Does the pain you have when you wear heels feel like it is deep in the joint in the front of the ankle, or does it feel more superficial along the muscles.

From what you describe, I would be concerned about your accessory joint motion in the ankle joint. It is very common to have some restrictions in the way the bones move against each other - wearing a heel can make any restriction more prominent because of the position of the joint...and if you have restriction, that can lead to joint pain.

Have you ever sprained that ankle before? Previous sprains, even ones from several years ago can cause small restrictions that over time can lead to irriation of the joint surfaces.

You might benefit from a visit with a PT who specializes in foot mechanics - joint mobilization of the ankle may help to improve your condition - I have seen good results in my patients with similiar complaints as yours.

You doctor is probably the best place to start - talk to them about your symptoms and see what they recommend.

Hope this helps - comment back if you have other questions.