Non-surgical management of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction- a UK survey.

backgroundPosterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) is commonly seen within musculoskeletal care. The condition's prevalence and management is poorly understood. This study aims to demonstrate current practice by multi-professional clinicians across the United Kingdom within the National Health Service.

methodsA national (UK) cross-sectional online survey was conducted among multi-professionals who treat PTTD within their NHS practice. The survey covered assessment, management and evaluation. This was shared via social media and professional groups.

resultsTwo hundred thirteen surveys were completed, with 153 matching the eligibility criteria. The main respondents were Physiotherapists (48%) and Podiatrists (38%). Ultrasound scanning was used most frequently when considering initial imaging (67%). Many different treatment modalities were used, but a core set of education/advice, foot orthoses, and foot specific as well as general exercise were most commonly chosen. Outcome measures routinely used were pain scale (96/269) and single leg heel raise (84/269), but patient reported outcome measures were not routinely used. The most frequent reason to escalate care was failure to manage symptoms with conservative management (106/123; 86.2%), followed by fixed deformity (10/123; 8.2%).

conclusionsThis survey provides evidence on current non-surgical management for PTTD from UK NHS practice. It provides a valuable marker for clinicians to use to compare their own practice and can be used in further research as a comparator.