Welcome to Smart Feet!

EXTENSOR TENDINITIS

The tendons that straighten the toes run along the top of the foot and are known as the extensor tendons. These tendons can become inflamed, causing pain and swelling.

Some activities, such as walking or running uphill require the extensor muscles to work harder to lift the foot. When going downhill, the tendons then have to work harder eccentrically to slow the foot. It is a very common injury in dancers and joggers.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Metatarsal stress fracture
• Dorsal forefoot strain

Symptoms:

• Dorsal foot pain (pain on the top of the foot)
• Diffuse swelling on the top of the foot
• Pain that is made worse with activity
• Pain when the extensor tendons are passively stretched

Signs to look for:

• Dorsal foot swelling
• Recent activities that could cause it – hiking, walking or running up and down hills
• Is the patient a dancer?

Possible Causes:

• Overuse
• Badly fitting shoes that are laced too tightly
• Tight gastrocnemius (calf) and soleus muscles
• Changes in training methods or running terrain, particularly hill running Running on icy or slippery surfaces

Goals:

• Distribute weight evenly over entire foot
• Restore optimal arch function and motion
• Cushion impact of body weight on feet, legs and spine
• Restore flexibility to ankle and feet
• Align the parts of the lower extremities so they work together

Solutions:

Arch Supports:

• Bio-Orthotics Winstep or Sundance exercising support with metatarsal lift

• Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support, such as the Bio-Orthotics Journey or Silhouette, for use when shoes cannot accommodate the Winstep or Sundance exercising support

• Extra depth shoes with firm heel counter, connecting shanks, and stiff rocker soles
• For exercise, wear shoes with titanium springs
• MBT physiological shoe
• Negative heel shoe
• Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
• Ensure shoes are not laced too tightly

Activities:

• Reduce high impact exercising until symptoms abate
• Regular stretching program for gastrocnemius and soleus muscles
• Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling