Foot & Ankle Pain
Foot and ankle pain can be incredibly limiting, affecting every movement and making everyday tasks such as walking, standing, or even getting out of bed difficult.
What Is Foot & Ankle Pain ?
Since the feet play such a crucial role in movement, any discomfort in this area can have a major impact on balance, mobility and overall quality of life.
The causes of foot and ankle pain are varied, often linked to injury, overuse, poor biomechanics, or underlying health conditions. One of the most common culprits is plantar fasciitis, which causes inflammation in the arch of the foot and results in sharp pain, particularly in the morning. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments are stretched or torn due to sudden twisting motions. Overuse injuries from activities like excessive walking, running, or standing can lead to tendonitis, causing stiffness and discomfort.
Biomechanical problems, such as flat feet or high arches, can lead to improper weight distribution, putting extra strain on the joints. In addition, wearing poor footwear – such as unsupportive shoes or high heels – can contribute to misalignment and result in ongoing pain.
What Are The Symptoms Of Foot & Ankle Pain ?
Typical signs of foot and ankle pain can include:
- Sharp, shooting pain that travels up into the knee, calf, or hip
- A sense of instability, making it feel as though the foot can’t properly support weight
- Overpronation or supination, where the foot rotates too far inward or outward, disrupting balance
- Collapsed arches, resulting in stabbing pain with every step
- Swelling and inflammation, which can make it painful to bear weight on the foot
- A burning or tingling sensation, often linked to nerve compression
- Limited range of motion, reducing flexibility and movement in the ankle
- Cramping or tightness in the muscles, caused by tension in the foot and lower leg
As the mechanics of the foot impact the entire body, ignoring foot pain can lead to compensatory patterns that place additional strain on the ankles, knees, hips and lower back. Identifying and addressing the root cause of foot pain is crucial for preserving long-term mobility and function.
What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating Foot & Ankle Pain ?
Our approach to foot and ankle pain is centred around a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan that targets the root causes of discomfort, aiming to restore optimal foot function. One of the primary focuses is re-educating the muscles in the foot, especially those that may have weakened over time. As we age, our muscles can become less active, which affects the mechanics of the foot. At Chichester Physio, our approach involves restoring the arch and ensuring the foot functions as it should, improving overall alignment and reducing pain.
Foot and ankle pain often follows from previous injuries, such as sprained ankles or overuse. If you’ve twisted your ankle or suffered from a sprain, our clinic can help address these ongoing issues and promote healing. Treatment typically begins with a thorough assessment to understand the full extent of the injury, followed by tailored therapies. Electrotherapy is used to help reduce inflammation and promote healing, while hands-on techniques ensure that the joints and tissues are moving correctly.
Kinesio taping is frequently added to provide support to the foot, aiding in pain relief and helping to offload the damaged structures. This approach ensures that, by the end of the session, you’ll leave feeling stronger and more confident in your ability to place weight through your foot without discomfort.
Additionally, we believe in empowering patients to take control of their recovery. To support this, she provides home exercises that patients can do between visits. These exercises help reinforce the progress made in the clinic, further strengthening the foot muscles and improving movement patterns, ultimately helping you get back to doing the activities you love without pain.
Download Our Free Report
Is foot and ankle pain diminishing the quality of your life? Don’t let it sideline the hobbies and activities you love most. Our free foot and ankle pain report uncovers the key causes of pain and provides expert tips to relieve discomfort, improve strength, and avoid future injuries. Take control of your recovery and get back on your feet by taking the first step on your health and wellness journey.