Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Extensor Tendinopathy
What is an extensor tendinopathy?
Extensor tendinopathy is a condition characterized by swelling and irritation within the tendons that run along the top of the foot. Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing this condition, helping to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence.
How does an extensor tendinopathy happen?
Swelling within the extensor tendons of the foot usually arises from two main causes: overuse of the tendons, such as during repetitive activity or excessive exercise, and external compression from tight footwear or tightly fastened shoelaces pressing on the tendons.
What are the symptoms of an extensor tendinopathy?
With extensor tendinopathy, pain is generally felt over the top of the foot. Pressing on the top of the foot can increase pain, as can pointing the toes downward (plantarflexion). Other symptoms may include swelling, stiffness, tenderness along the tendon, and discomfort during activities such as walking, running, or wearing tight shoes.
- Pain over the top of the foot
- Increased pain when pressing on the top of the foot
- Pain when pointing the toes downward (plantarflexion)
- Swelling over the affected tendons
- Stiffness in the foot
- Tenderness along the tendon
- Discomfort during activities such as walking or running
- Discomfort when wearing tight footwear
What should I do if I have an extensor tendinopathy?
If you have recently increased or changed your training regime, the added load may be causing overuse of the extensor tendons. In this case, it’s important to reassess your training load and get guidance on strengthening these tendons. A physiotherapist can also evaluate your foot and leg biomechanics to ensure they aren’t contributing to the problem. Additionally, changes in footwear or lacing technique may be responsible for the injury, so these should be assessed and modified if needed.
What shouldn’t I do if I have an extensor tendinopathy?
You should avoid continuing activities that cause pain on the top of your foot, as this can worsen the condition and delay recovery. Resting the area and modifying activity is essential until a physiotherapist can assess and guide appropriate treatment.
Physiotherapy treatment for an extensor tendinopathy.
Your physiotherapist can accurately diagnose extensor tendinopathy and provide a tailored management plan. In some cases, they may refer you for further examinations, such as imaging, to rule out other possible causes of your foot pain and ensure the most effective treatment.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and lower leg
- Soft tissue massage to reduce tendon irritation
- Taping or strapping techniques to support the tendons
- Footwear and orthotic advice to reduce pressure on the tendons
- Activity modification to reduce overuse
- Electrotherapy modalities such as ultrasound to reduce pain and inflammation
Could there be any long-term effects from an extensor tendinopathy?
If extensor tendinopathy is ignored and left untreated, there is a risk of permanent damage to the extensor tendons. Early assessment and appropriate physiotherapy are crucial to prevent long-term complications and maintain proper foot function.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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