Calcific tendonitis of the tibialis posterior tendon at the navicular attachment

Authors

  • Luke William Harries
  • Susan Kempson
  • Roland Watura

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3941/jrcr.v5i6.764

Keywords:

Calcific Tendonosis, Tendonitis, Tendinosis, Posterior Navicular Tendon, navicular attachment, navicular insertion, calcium hydroxyapatite, navicular tuberosity, tibialis posterior tendon

Abstract

Calcific tendinosis (tendonosis/tendonitis) is a condition which results from the deposition of calcium hydroxyapatite crystals in any tendon of the body. Calcific tendonitis usually presents with pain, which can be exacerbated by prolonged use of the affected tendon.
We report a case of calcific tendinosis in the posterior tibialis tendon at the navicular insertion. The pathology is rare in the foot, and extremely rare in the tibialis posterior tendon, indeed there are only 2 reported in the published literature. This case report highlights the need to consider calcific tendinosis in the foot despite its rarity. If this diagnosis is considered early, appropriate investigations can then be requested and unnecessary biopsies, use of antibiotics and surgery can be avoided. We also discuss possible causes of calcific tendinosis in the tibialis posterior tendon, the role of imaging modalities and review treatment methods.

Author Biographies

Luke William Harries

Medical Student, Queens Medical Centre Medical School

Susan Kempson

Extended Scope Physiotherapy Practitioner, Emergancy Department

Roland Watura

Consultant Radiologist, Frenchay Hospital

Published

2011-06-07

Issue

Section

Musculoskeletal Radiology