Conservative treatment of tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction--a review

Appropriate conservative treatment is considered essential to address symptoms associated with tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction (TPTD) and prevent its potential long-term disabling consequences. The main aim of this review, undertaken in 2007, was to evaluate the evidence from studies for the effects of conservative treatment modalities in the management of TPTD. This evidence could then be used as a basis for the development of a clinical guideline for the management of the condition.

Studies were selected according to specific criteria and evaluated for methodological quality. As preliminary literature searches had identified no randomised controlled trials at the time of the review, studies of lower hierarchy were included.

Five uncontrolled observational studies evaluating the outcomes of various orthotic treatments alone or in combination with other therapies were included in the review. Different study designs, methodological quality, population characteristics, interventions and outcome measures were found.

Limited and poor quality evidence was found in this review regarding the conservative treatment of TPTD. Thus a cause-effect relationship between intervention and outcome could not be established nor an optimal conservative treatment regime for the condition. Further better quality research is warranted in this area to inform practice, particularly as there is no consensus in the literature regarding treatment of this condition.