Extensor tendonitis is when the extensor tendons become inflamed, causing pain and swelling. The extensor tendons straighten the toes and run along the top of the foot.
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 (top of the foot) 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
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
- Wear pumps or heels only minimally
- Ensure shoes are not laced too tightly
Activities:
- Reduce high impact exercising until symptoms are reduced
- 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
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 2007-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Microsurgeon.org Text: SportsInjuryClinic.net, R. Fukushima, Dance Magazine