Tibialis posterior tendon reconstruction
Damage to the tibialis posterior tendon can cause pain, weakness and a gradual flattening of the foot, making walking and everyday activities increasingly difficult. Tibialis posterior tendon reconstruction is a surgical procedure that can help restore support to the foot, often as part of surgery to correct an adult-acquired flat foot. At Fortius Clinic, our foot and ankle specialists will take the time to understand your symptoms, explain your treatment options clearly and support you throughout your recovery. Together, we'll create a personalised treatment plan focused on helping you move comfortably and return to the activities that matter most to you. Early assessment can help identify the extent of tendon damage, prevent the condition from progressing and determine whether surgery is the most appropriate treatment.
Specialist expertise
Our experienced foot and ankle consultants provide evidence-based care for both common and complex tendon conditions.
Sports medicine experience
We support everyone from recreational walkers to elite athletes, helping people recover safely and regain confidence in their movement.
Flexible access to care
Whether you're self-funding, using private medical insurance or have a referral, we'll help you access specialist care as quickly as possible.
What is tibialis posterior tendon reconstruction?
The tibialis posterior tendon runs along the inside of your ankle and attaches to the bones of the foot. It plays an important role in supporting the arch of the foot and providing stability when you walk, run or stand. When this tendon becomes severely damaged or no longer functions properly, it may not be possible to repair it directly. In these cases, reconstruction surgery may be recommended. The procedure usually involves transferring another healthy tendon in the foot, called the flexor digitorum longus (FDL), to take over the role of the damaged tibialis posterior tendon. Although the FDL tendon normally helps bend your toes, transferring it rarely causes noticeable problems because other tendons continue to perform this function. To provide lasting support, tendon reconstruction is commonly combined with additional procedures to correct the position of the foot. The most common is a calcaneal osteotomy, where the heel bone is carefully repositioned and secured with screws. This helps restore the arch of the foot and allows the transferred tendon to work more effectively. Your consultant will assess the shape of your foot, the condition of the tendon and the severity of your symptoms before recommending the most appropriate treatment.
What are the symptoms?
You may be advised to consider reconstruction surgery if you have:
- Pain along the inside of the ankle or foot
- Swelling around the tendon
- A flattening of the arch of the foot
- Foot or ankle weakness
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
- Pain that becomes worse with activity
- A foot that gradually rolls inwards
- Symptoms that have not improved with non-surgical treatment
How is it diagnosed?
Your consultant will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history and how your foot is affecting your daily activities. They will then examine your foot and ankle to assess tendon function, foot alignment and movement.
To confirm the diagnosis and plan your treatment, we may recommend:
- A detailed medical history
- Physical examination
- Assessment of your walking pattern and foot alignment
- Strength and movement testing
- Weight-bearing X-rays to assess foot position
- MRI or ultrasound scans to evaluate the condition of the tendon
- CT scans if detailed assessment of the bones is required
How is it treated?
Treatment will depend on the severity of the tendon damage, the shape of your foot and your lifestyle goals.
Many people benefit from non-surgical treatment before surgery is considered. This may include:
- Activity modification
- Physiotherapy
- Supportive footwear
- Orthotic insoles
- Pain relief where appropriate
If symptoms continue or the foot becomes progressively flatter and more unstable, surgery may be recommended.
Tibialis posterior tendon reconstruction usually involves:
- Transferring the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendon to replace the damaged tendon
- Correcting the position of the heel bone with a calcaneal osteotomy
- Additional procedures where needed to restore the shape and function of the foot
Your consultant will explain exactly which procedures are recommended and why, so you know what to expect before surgery.
Recovery goals
Early recovery
Protecting the reconstructed tendon and foot Reducing pain and swelling Allowing the tissues and bones to heal Beginning gentle movement when appropriate
Building strength and movement
As your recovery progresses, rehabilitation focuses on: Restoring ankle and foot movement Gradually rebuilding strength Improving balance and stability Returning to everyday activities
Returning to the activities you enjoy
The final stage of rehabilitation aims to: Build strength for walking, work and exercise Improve confidence on uneven ground Return to recreational activities or sport where appropriate Reduce the risk of future problems
How to pay
We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.
Private medical insurance
If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.
Paying for yourself
You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.
Tibialis posterior tendon reconstruction FAQs
Recovery varies depending on the procedures performed and your overall health. Most people spend several weeks protecting the foot before gradually progressing through physiotherapy. It commonly takes between 6 and 12 months to achieve the full benefits of surgery.
Yes. Most patients wear a cast or walking boot during the early stages of recovery to protect the reconstruction while the tendon and any bone procedures heal. Your consultant will advise when it is safe to begin weight-bearing.
Yes. Smoking and vaping can slow healing by reducing blood flow to the bones and soft tissues, increasing the risk of delayed healing and complications after surgery. Stopping smoking, or reducing how much you smoke, before and after surgery can improve your recovery. If you would like support, speak to your GP or visit the NHS Quit Smoking service.
Walking gradually improves as your rehabilitation progresses. Most people begin with protected weight-bearing before moving to normal walking over several weeks or months, depending on the surgery performed and how well healing progresses.
Many people are able to return to low-impact activities once strength and function have recovered. Higher-impact sports may take longer, and your consultant and physiotherapist will guide you on when it is safe to return based on your progress.
Find a clinic near you
Fortius Clinic Marylebone Wing
Our 79,000 sq ft, seven-story, private hospital on Wigmore Street has 39 en-suite inpatient rooms, consultation and treatment rooms, and a physiotherapy suite.
The hospital has a high-spec imaging suite fully equipped with an MRI, CT scanner and X-ray machine. There are three state-of-the-art operating theatres, two anaesthetic rooms and a recovery bay.
Fortius Clinic London has two Mako robots for hip and knee joint replacements.
- 66 Wigmore StreetW1U 2SB
- +442031952442
- Open 24 hours
- Sports & Exercise Medicine
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Tendon
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
- CT guided injection
- MRI Scan
- CT Scan
Fortius Clinic Wimbledon
Our Wimbledon clinic houses a state-of-the-art imaging centre with a 3T MRI and X-ray scanners, Ultrasound, seven consulting rooms, two spacious waiting areas and well equipped treatment rooms all located on one level, ensuring easy accessibility for all patients.
Our partnership with Spire St Anthony’s Hospital allows us to provide orthopaedic surgery closer to our clinic. We treat a full range of conditions and perform joint replacement surgery using the latest Mako robotic assisted technology.
Take a tour of our clinic virtually through Google 360 views here.
We are open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm, and Saturday mornings from 8.30am to 12.30pm.
If you are travelling by Tube, our closest underground station is Wimbledon (District Line), which also has rail and tramlink services from central London and beyond.
There is no parking available at the clinic, but we have a number of parking facilities all within a 10-12 minute walk of the clinic: Centre Court Car Park, Broadway Car Park, and Hartfield Road Car Park. Please note that all of these facilities are paid car parks.
The building at 22 Worple Road has steps leading up to the front entrance. If you require assistance please inform us before your arrival by calling ahead on 020 3195 2442
- 22 Worple RoadSW19 4DD
- 0203 195 2442
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- MRI Scan
Fortius Clinic Marylebone
Our Marylebone Clinic is conveniently located in the historic area between Baker Street and Marylebone High Street, just off Manchester Square, home to the iconic Wallace Collection. We have seven consulting rooms, private waiting areas on each floor, well equipped treatment rooms and diagnostic imaging.
- 17 Fitzhardinge StreetW1U 2EU
- 020 3195 2442
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
Fortius Clinic City
Our City Clinic is conveniently located between Bank and Monument stations, within the historic and financial heart of London. At our modern, two-floor facility we have nine consulting rooms, spacious waiting areas, well equipped treatment rooms and an imaging centre.
Explore our City Clinic with our virtual tour.
If you are travelling by Tube, our closest underground stations are Bank and Monument, exit 6 for King William Street.
Should you be travelling by car, the closest parking is a three minute drive away at NCP Car Park London Vintry Thames Exchange. If you are attending clinic on a weekday, please be aware that we are based in the congestion charge zone.
- 75 King William StreetEC4N 7BE
- 0203 195 2442
- Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Tendon
- Sports & Exercise Medicine
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
- MRI Scan
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