We offer leading physiotherapy services to treat foot and ankle pain.
The foot and ankle joints are made up of numerous bones that are intricately shaped to provide the entire body a stable base to stand on. Strong ligaments and muscles protect the joint and hold these bones together. Pain within the foot and ankle decreases this stable platform impacting on your whole body.
Often people present with back pain or hamstring strains a few years after an ankle sprain that had not been treated. Our physios will ensure a complete rehabilitation package to ensure you are pain free and can return to your activities safely. Treatment may include manual therapy, massage, acupuncture, strapping, Shock wave therapy etc. We will always discuss best management with you.
Common Injuries can range from minor sprains and strains to more severe fractures and dislocations. Understanding the different types of foot and ankle injuries, their symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies is crucial for proper management and recovery.
Ankle Sprains:
One of the most common foot and ankle injuries is an ankle sprain. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn. This injury often happens when the foot twists or rolls inward, causing the ligaments on the outside of the ankle to become injured. Ankle sprains can vary in severity, with mild sprains involving minimal tearing of the ligaments and severe sprains involving complete tears or ruptures.
Symptoms of an ankle sprain may include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot, and instability of the ankle joint. Treatment for ankle sprains typically involves rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), pain management with over-the-counter medications, and physical therapy exercises to regain strength and stability in the ankle. In more severe cases, a brace or cast may be necessary to immobilize the joint during the healing process.
Achilles Tendonopathy:
The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. The Achilles can degenerate in response to overuse or repetitive stress. This injury is often seen in athletes who participate in activities that involve jumping or running.
Symptoms may include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel or lower calf especially in the morning, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking or participating in physical activities. Treatment is diverse depending on the cause but can include management strategies, orthotics, acupuncture, ESWT and a progressive loading regime. A biomechanical assessment is also warranted.
Stress Fractures:
Stress fractures are small cracks or breaks in the bones of the foot or ankle that occur due to repetitive stress or overuse. These injuries are commonly seen in athletes who engage in activities that involve repetitive impact. Stress fractures can also occur in individuals with weakened bones, such as those with osteoporosis or suboptimal nutrition.
Symptoms of stress fractures may include pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, swelling, tenderness, and possible bruising. Treatment for stress fractures typically involves rest, immobilization with a cast or walking boot, pain management and a progressive graded return to activity.
Plantar Fasciitis:
This condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It is often characterized by heel pain that is worse in the morning or after periods of rest.
Lisfranc Injury:
A Lisfranc injury involves damage to the ligaments and/or bones in the midfoot area. It can occur from a direct impact or twisting motion and may cause pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot.
Organisations We Have Provided Physiotherapy Services To
