These five tendons of the foot and ankle can differentiate by where the pain occurs, including:

• Top of the foot
• Outer foot and ankle (pinky side)
• The inner side of the foot and ankle (big toe side)
  The backside (heel)

Back Side (Heel)

Achilles tendonitis- There is a large tendon at the end of the gastrocnemius muscle and the strongest ankle plantar flexor. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon can cause heel and calf pain during walking and running. Tendinopathy is common.

Outer Foot/Ankle

Peroneal Tendonitis- A tendon located on the outer ankle commonly injured during traditional ankle sprains, and could result in a peroneal tendon tear.  The Peroneal muscle help with plantar flexion and eversion of the foot.

Topside Foot/Ankle

Extensor Tendonitis– The tendon group on the top of the foot is common in runners. If you lift your toes, you will see the extensor tendons appear on the top of the foot.

Tibialis Anterior Tendonitis- The largest and strongest tendon creating dorsiflexion of the ankle. Front of ankle pain is generally made by lifting the foot towards the shin and commonly occurs with shin splints.

Inner side Foot/Ankle

Tibialis Posterior Tendonitis– Large tendon on the inner side of the foot. This tendon supports the medial longitudinal arch, and with significant tendon injuries, flatfoot can occur.

Symptoms of Tendonitis

Tendonitis of the foot and ankle tends to be painful during activities (running) that subside during rest and reoccurs once exercises begin again.

Cause of Tendonitis

Tendonitis of the foot and ankle occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse, injury, strain, or too much repetitive exercise.

Common Causes include:

Peroneal Tendonitis

• High ankle sprain
• Inversion ankle sprain

Achilles Tendonitis

• A sudden increase in intensity or duration of running
• Gastrocnemius tear

Extensor Tendonitis

• Tightly fitted shoes
• Uphill workouts

Tibialis Anterior Tendonitis

• High heel shoes
• Kicking with pointed toe
• Poorly controlled foot pronation

Tibialis Posterior Tendonitis

• Eversion ankle sprain
• Limited ankle dorsiflexion
• Weak foot intrinsic muscles

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