PTTD Recovery Stories: Real Patient Experiences
Reading about other people’s experiences with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction can help you feel less alone. Here are some common recovery paths that real patients have gone through.
Conservative treatment success: Sarah’s story
Sarah, a 42-year-old recreational runner, noticed pain along her inner ankle after increasing her mileage. At first, she thought it was just soreness. When the pain persisted for several weeks, she saw a podiatrist and was diagnosed with stage 1 PTTD.
Her treatment plan included custom orthotics, a structured physical therapy program, and temporarily reducing her running volume. Within three months, Sarah was back to her regular training schedule. She continues to do her strengthening exercises twice a week and has had no recurrence two years later.
The key for Sarah was catching it early and being patient with the recovery process.
Surgery and back to active: Michael’s story
Michael, a 55-year-old teacher, had ignored his flatfoot worsening for years. By the time he sought treatment, he was stage 3 with significant deformity and constant pain.
He underwent triple arthrodesis surgery in April 2024. The first six weeks were tough. He needed help with daily activities and couldn’t work. But he followed his physical therapy protocol religiously.
By month four, he was walking without pain for the first time in years. At the one-year mark, Michael was playing golf again and able to keep up with his grandchildren. He says the recovery was harder than he expected, but the result was worth it.
Learning to manage: David’s story
David, a 38-year-old with type 2 diabetes, was diagnosed with PTTD in both feet. His doctor warned him that healing would be slower due to his diabetes.
True to the warning, David’s recovery took longer than average. He worked with a podiatrist and endocrinologist together to manage his blood sugar, which is important for tendon healing. He wears custom braces daily and has modified his activities to avoid high-impact sports.
Today, David is relatively pain-free and manages his condition successfully. His advice: “Listen to your body and don’t ignore the warning signs. The earlier you address it, the easier the journey.”
What these stories teach us
Every PTTD journey is different, but some patterns emerge:
- Early detection matters. Sarah’s quick action meant a relatively easy recovery.
- Surgery works when needed. Michael’s advanced case required it, and he recovered well.
- Chronic conditions can be managed. David shows that even with complications, quality of life can be good.
- Following treatment plans is essential. All three patients credit compliance with their outcomes.
- Patience is required. Recovery takes months, not weeks.
The bottom line
PTTD affects everyone differently. Some people recover with conservative treatment. Others need surgery. Many learn to manage the condition long-term.
What matters most is getting diagnosed early, following your treatment plan, and staying patient through the recovery process. Your story is still being written.
Sources
- Patient experiences compiled from podiatry clinic case studies
- AAOS treatment outcome data