Skip to content

Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Flexor & Extensor Tendon Injuries and Ruptures

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for flexor and extensor tendon injuries, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Understanding flexor and extensor tendon injuries and your options.

Flexor tendons bend the toes and extensor tendons lift them. Either type can be strained, inflamed, cut, or torn. A full rupture means the tendon has snapped apart.

These injuries can come from overuse, cuts, or sudden force. Because toes and the front of the foot are needed for every step, early care matters.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Flexor & Extensor Tendon Injuries and Ruptures care

Symptoms

Signs of flexor and extensor tendon injuries.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Pain or swelling along the top or bottom of the foot

  • 02

    Trouble lifting or curling a toe

  • 03

    A pop at the moment of injury

  • 04

    Weakness when pushing off or stepping

Why it happens

What can cause flexor and extensor tendon injuries.

  • 01

    Repeated stress from running or dancing

  • 02

    Cuts or deep wounds to the foot

  • 03

    Sudden force such as a hard landing

  • 04

    Tight shoes rubbing over the tendon

Care groupAnkle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Diagnosis and care

How we treat flexor and extensor tendon injuries.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We test how well each toe and the ankle move against resistance. We look for gaps or tenderness along the tendon. Ultrasound or MRI can confirm a tear, and X-rays check for bone injury.

Step 2 · Treatment

Mild strains often improve with rest, ice, and supportive shoes. Taping, a brace, or a boot can protect the tendon. Physical therapy restores motion and strength once pain allows. Injections are used with care and only in select cases.

A fully torn tendon often needs surgery to repair it or replace the missing part. Partial tears may heal without an operation.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Strains may take a few weeks to a couple of months. Repaired tendons often need protection and therapy for three months or more.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist right away after a cut, pop, or sudden loss of toe movement. Also come in if tendon pain lasts more than a couple of weeks.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Can a torn toe tendon heal without surgery?

Partial tears sometimes do. A complete tear usually needs repair to restore full movement.

Does it matter how soon I get care after a cut on my foot?

Yes. Early repair often gives better results and lowers the risk of infection.

Get help with flexor and extensor tendon injuries.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Flexor & Extensor Tendon Injuries and Ruptures care at 15 clinics.

All care groups