Ankle/Foot Pain
The ankle and foot absorb our entire body weight when we walk and stand. Ankle and foot pain can be some of the most chronic conditions that people deal with over the years due to the inability to rest. With about 75% of people having foot pain at some point. However, this is one of the conditions that people rarely seek treatment.
Common Causes of Ankle and Foot Pain
Ankle Fracture
The ankle is a combination of 3 bones in the lower leg that connect the lower leg to the foot. A fracture at this site is common after falls, sport related injury, or simply stepping in a hole. There are different degrees of ankle fractures. The more severe fractures require surgical fixation and require the person to use crutches or a walker for approximately 10 weeks to keep weight off of the ankle.
Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains are the most common athletic injury. There are 3 ligaments that stabilize the outside of the ankle. When these ligaments get stretched beyond their limit it results in an ankle sprain. This usually occurs from an ankle rolling to the outside This can lead to chronic ankle instability, and it increases the chances of it happening again.
Plantar fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a thick connective tissue band that runs under the bottom of the foot. It supports the arch of the foot and absorbs pressure when we walk. Over time the plantar fascia can get inflamed and irritated. Usually this is associated with tightness in the calves, a recent weight gain, and flat feet.
How Can Physical Therapy Help My Ankle and Foot Pain?
A physical therapist can accurately diagnose the cause of your ankle and foot pain. Physical therapy can improve your ankle stiffness and weakness after a fracture. Physical therapy can improve your ankle stability after an ankle sprain and physical therapy can effectively treat your plantar fasciitis. Using dry needling for ankle and foot pain is an effective treatment and pain control technique.