With 26 bones, 33 joints and 112 ligaments located in your feet, these appendages are important in balance, support and propulsion as you run. As a result of the large role your feet play while running, it is very possible that runners may experience foot pain from time to time. Overuse injuries are the most common types of injuries runners experience. One common type of injury that affects the tendons in the inner tops of your feet is known as extensor tendinitis.
Extensor Tendinitis
Extensor tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons that allow you to straighten of your toes. These tendons run across the top portion of your foot and are called the extensor tendons. The medical terms for these tendons include the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, extensor hallucis brevis, extensor digitorum longus and the extensor digitorum brevis. Tendinitis causes these tendons to become inflamed, swollen and painful. The extensor hallucis longus is the tendon most likely to cause pain on the inner portion of your foot.
Causes
Extensor tendinitis has a variety of causes. Tendinitis may be caused by wearing ill-fitting running shoes, including shoes that are laced too tightly and place excessive pressure on the top portion of your foot. You may also develop extensor tendinitis as the result of overuse, running on slippery surfaces or changing your training methods. Running up hill or on tough terrain means your extensor tendons are going to have to work extra hard in order to lift your foot off of the ground as you run.
Symptoms
There are a number of indicators of extensor tendinitis. You may experience pain on the top portion of your foot as well as swelling. Pain caused by tendinitis usually intensifies during running and subsides with rest. You may also experience pain while performing foot and ankle stretches.
Home Care
Often times, extensor tendinitis can be treated at home. Rest and avoid running until you are pain free. During your recovery, ice your foot for 20 minutes at a time, three to four times per day. Investing in proper shoes can help prevent tendinitis. Shoes should fit properly, be laced properly and placing a pad in the forefoot of your shoe can help to take the pressure off of your extensor tendons. Perform foot and lower leg stretches to strengthen your tendons.
Visiting a Doctor
If you experience pain for more than a few days, visit a podiatrist or a sports medicine specialist. Your doctor will complete a medical history and perform a physical examination. He may also order imaging tests to rule out certain conditions or confirm the severity of your extensor tendinitis. He may prescribe physical therapy or an anti-inflammatory medication. For frequent and long-bouts of tendinitis, your doctor may give you you a steroid injection to help ease the pain and reduce inflammation. Surgery is rarely required for this condition.
