Can Massage Therapy Help PTTD? What You Should Know

If you’re dealing with PTTD pain, you might be wondering whether massage could bring some relief. It’s a reasonable question—massage feels good, and it helps with lots of musculoskeletal issues. But let’s talk about what it can and can’t do for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

What Massage Can Do

Massage isn’t a cure for PTTD, but it can help in a few ways:

  • Temporary pain relief — It can reduce muscle tension around the affected area, which might take some pressure off the tendon
  • Improved circulation — Better blood flow can support healing, though it won’t repair a damaged tendon
  • Relaxation — When you’re in chronic pain, stress makes everything worse. Massage can help you feel more comfortable

Think of it as complementary—not a replacement for orthotics, physical therapy, or the treatment plan your doctor recommends.

Types That May Help

Some people find these approaches useful:

  • Gentle calf massage — The calf muscles connect to the Achilles, which affects how much strain your posterior tibial tendon takes
  • Myofascial release — A gentler technique that targets connective tissue
  • Self-massage with a ball — Rolling your foot over a tennis ball can provide some relief

Start gentle. You’re not trying to work out a knot—you’re trying to ease tension.

What to Avoid

Not all massage is good for PTTD:

  • Deep tissue on the tendon itself — This can make inflammation worse
  • Aggressive stretching during flare-ups — Rest is more appropriate when the tendon is angry
  • Anything that causes sharp pain — Discomfort is one thing; pain is your body telling you to stop

A Simple Self-Massage Technique

Try this at home:

  1. Sit with your foot resting on your opposite thigh
  2. Use your thumbs to gently press along the inside of your arch
  3. Work from your heel toward your ankle
  4. Use slow, gentle pressure for 2-3 minutes

If it hurts, stop. Ice afterward if needed.

The Bottom Line

Massage can be a nice addition to your PTTD management routine, but it’s not going to fix the underlying problem. Keep using your orthotics, doing your physical therapy exercises, and following your doctor’s advice. Think of massage as one tool in your toolkit—not the whole toolkit.

This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.