Inflammation of the Extensor tendons of the toes (extensor tendinitis)

Extensor tendinitis

Extensor tendons.

The extensor tendons run along the top of the foot and are used to straighten the foot. These tendons can become inflamed causing pain and swelling.

Inflamed extensor tendons, symptoms.

• Pain on the top of the foot (dorsal foot pain).
• Diffuse swelling on the top of the foot.
• Pain along the top of the foot which is worse during running.
• Pain when the tendons are passively stretched.

Reasons for inflamed extensor tendons?

• Too much exercise involving the tendons
• Tight or badly fitting shoes which cause pressure on the top of the foot.
• A change in training methods or running terrain, particularly hill running. Hill running means that the extensor muscles work harder to lift the foot and they have to work harder eccentrically to slow the foot.
• Running on icy or slippery surfaces can also be a cause.

Treatment of inflamed extensor tendons.

• Rest until there is no more pain.
• Cold therapy (ice therapy)
• Change shoes and ensure shoes fit properly
• Ensure shoe laces are not too tightly tied.
• Padding in the forefoot of the shoe takes the pressure off.
• Rehab programme including strengthening of the extensor muscles and stretching the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg.

Visiting a sports injury specialist or doctor.

• Prescribe NSADIs anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.
• They will consider the possibility of a metatarsal stress fracture and offer an acurate diagnosis.
• Possible steroid injection may be given.
• In very rare cases surgery is performed.

Useful Products:

• Cold Therapy - to help reduce pain and swelling

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Extensor Tendinitis and other foot injuries