Do I Need Surgery for PTTD?
Surgery is typically needed only for advanced Stage 3 PTTD when conservative treatments fail. Most people recover with rest, physical therapy, orthotics, and medication.
Do I Need Surgery for PTTD?
Surgery is not the first treatment for PTTD—most people recover with conservative (non-surgical) treatment. Surgery is typically considered only when: the condition has progressed to advanced Stage 3, conservative treatments have failed after 6-12 months, the tendon is severely damaged, or there’s significant flatfoot deformity causing disability.
Conservative treatments that work for most people include: rest and activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy to strengthen the PTT, custom orthotics to support the arch, and supportive footwear. These approaches are effective for the majority of PTTD cases, especially when caught early.
If surgery is needed, the most common procedure is tendon transfer with calcaneal osteotomy (shifting the heel bone and using a tendon to reinforce the arch). Recovery requires 6-12 months of rehabilitation, and some patients may still need orthotics long-term.
The best way to avoid surgery is early diagnosis and treatment. Don’t wait until your condition progresses—see a healthcare provider if you have inner ankle pain that persists.
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This content is for informational purposes and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.