How To Treat Foot and Ankle Pain

The human foot and ankle is a complex system of ligaments, tendons, nerves, joints and dozens of bones.

Pain in the ankle and foot are common complaints that can be physically debilitating. There are many causes for this discomfort including:

Achilles Tendonitis

Overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone, causing pain and lack of mobility.

Plantar Fasciitis

A strain of the flat band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This band, the plantar fascia, can become weak, swollen and irritated, causing heel pain when standing or walking.

Sprains

An injury to a ligament that connects two bones. A ligament can stretch or tearif the bones in a joint move out of position from a force, such as a fall or direct contact with another person during sports

Strains

An injury to a muscle or tendon. Muscles and tendons can be injured from overuse, overstretching, repetitive motions, sports injury, or a direct force.

Sprains and strains can both cause swelling, pain and weakness.

How Cahill Physical Therapy Can Help You

Cathy Cahill and her expert team of therapists will access your foot or ankle condition and design a program that is specific to your individual needs and goals.

An ankle or foot problem may also require therapy that strengthens the lower leg, helping stabilize the lower extremity. Depending on your specific condition, treatment may include:

• Muscle proprioception
• Sports specific training modalities
• Pilates
• Balance board

Stress reduction can play an important role in recovery from injury. In addition to physical therapy, the right home remedy can help ease your discomfort further by improving circulation and relaxing muscles and joints.

Nutrition and weight control are also key players in your ongoing well being and physical fitness.