What is lower extremity tenosynovitis?
• Lower extremity (ek-strem-IH-tee) tenosynovitis (ten-o-sin-VEYE-tis) is a condition affecting the tendons of a lower extremity (limb). It also affects the lining of the sheath around the tendon (synovium). Tendons are cords of tissue that connect muscles to the bones. With lower extremity tenosynovitis, the sheath and the synovium of the flexor (bending) muscles become inflamed (swollen). The tendons may become thickened and have a hard time moving through the swollen covering. The tendons and synovium of the muscles of the foot, heel, ankle, or tibia (shin bone) may be affected. Over time, this may cause pain and tenderness when moving the affected leg or foot, especially the ankle and heel areas. Lower extremity tenosynovitis usually affects athletes, ballet dancers, and people of middle age or older. • Lower extremity tenosynovitis may be an acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term) condition. It may also be caused by an infection due to a wound or trauma to the tendon. Bacteria (germ
