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FLEXOR TENDONITIS

Flexor tendonitis is an inflammation of the flexor tendons of the toes. 

The tendons that bend the toes originate from two muscles of the lower leg - the flexor digitorum longus and the flexor hallucis longus muscles. They run down the inside of the ankle and under the foot to the toes and are known as the flexor tendons.

Flexor tendonitis is less common than extensor tendonitis but can be more painful and disabling. It is more likely to occur in dancers.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Sesamoiditis
• Capsulitis

Symptoms:

• Tenderness along the course of the tendons
• Pain when the big toe is bent against resistance
• Pain on the inside back of the ankle
• Pain in the arch of the foot

Signs to look for:

• Pain at toe off
• More pain after activity than before or during

Possible Causes:

• Overuse
• Shoe friction
• Chronic passive stretching of toes

Goals:

• Control motion in the foot and leg
• Align feet, ankles, knees and hips
• Move foot forward with as little lateral movement as possible
• Footwear that support legs and feet

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, high toe box, rocker sole and steel shank

• MBT physiological footwear

• Wear heels and pumps only as long as absolutely necessary

• Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only

Activities:

• Regular stretching of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, Achilles tendon and arch structure

• Rotation of weight bearing (dancing, walking) with non-weight bearing exercising, such as bicycling and swimming

This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care.  The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below.  Copyright 2005 Carole Romig

Sources  Image:  SportsInjuryClinic.net  Text: SportsInjuryClinic.net, B. Meanwell, CPed