Your feet and ankles are key elements of the body. They are what enable you to move around and support your weight as you walk. A function they normally do very well, however there are some conditions which cause them to not work as well.
Foot and ankle conditions range in complexity from simple sprains to traumas that impact multiple structures in the foot and ankle. Conditions affecting the feet and ankles can be broken down into two main types; direct injury to the structure, or degeneration of the tissues (as through disease or overuse).
Fractures are a common foot and ankle injury. This can cause painful inflammation and bruising. It still may be possible to walk with a fracture, depending on the bone affected.
Another injury that can occur is damage to your Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone. Damage occurs when the tendon is overstretched and tears, causing it to rupture. This can be very painful, and it will make it difficult to extend the ankle and stand on your toes.
Besides injuries, you also have certain other conditions that will make it hard for your foot and ankle to function properly. For example, people with flat feet, a condition where you don’t have much of an arch to your feet, can experience aching feet and difficulty standing on their toes. Bone spurs are another painful condition that can develop. A bone spur is a tiny pointed outgrowth of bone in the foot, resulting in pain, numbness, and tenderness.
The foot and ankle are made up of an intricate, interconnected network of bones, tendons, and ligaments. They are also weight-bearing so, damage to these parts of the body can be quite disabling. It is important to seek prompt medical care when dealing with a foot and ankle injury, to prevent further injury, and ensure the best outcome.
There are many types of treatments available, and your treatment plan will vary depending on your injury or specific condition. Physical therapy can help relieve pain and improve function if you have a problem in your feet or ankles. Using treatments like special strengthening and stretching exercises, massage, and ultrasound technology, a physical therapist can help you as you recover from a foot or ankle injury. They can also examine your gait (the way you walk) and address any gait issues to avoid further damage or reinjury.
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, our team at Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy can provide a comprehensive selection of physical therapy techniques to help your foot and ankle. Don’t suffer, give us a call and find out how we can help you!
At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!
Reddy Care Great Neck (Great Neck Physical Therapy): 516-829-0030
Reddy Care Farmingdale (Farmingdale Physical Therapy): 516-420-2900
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): 516-829-0030
