With summer on our heals, you might be thinking about adding miles to your runs along A1A or joining a summer sports league here on the First Coast. Whichever activity you choose, you may be worried about Achilles Tendonitis; a condition where the Achilles tendon becomes sore after over use. ***Just so you know: The Achilles tendonis the thick rope-like structure on the back of your lower leg and one of many tendons we have connecting our calf muscles to our feet. *** Another important tendon is the posterior tibial muscle. Located behind your shin-bone (the tibia), the posterior tibial (PT) muscle is used for flexing your foot inwards at the ankle joint. This is an important muscle for stabilizing your foot when your heel hits the ground and when your foot pushes off.  Like your Achilles, the PT tendon will become sore if it is overused. According to Dr. Vimal Reddy, PT tendonitis is characterized by pain that gets worse with running. You will feel the pain in your inner leg, next to the heel cord.  You are particularly at risk if you tend to flatten your feet out, or pronate when you run. Doing this stretches and irritates the PT tendon even more. Tips for prevention and treatment:

• Arch supports—to minimize the amount you pronate your foot
• Protective taping—again, to restrict movement of your ankle
• Aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
• Brace, walking boot or cast—to immobilize the tendon and give it some rest

In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to give you some relief. If you pronate when you run or if you have pain, consult with Dr. Reddy at the First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic to find out what is the best treatment option for your case.