Foot Conditions That Can Improve with Physical Therapy

Some foot conditions don’t seem to go away, no matter how much medication a person takes.

Some foot conditions don’t seem to go away, no matter how much medication a person takes. Fortunately for many, physical therapy has proved to be the light at the end of the tunnel.

Here are some of the most common foot conditions that can be improved through physical therapy:

Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendon tears generally require surgery. Fortunately, the outlook isn’t as bleak for Achilles tendonitis. Also known as Achilles tendon inflammations, they are treatable with physical therapy.

Plantar fasciitis

The toes connect to the heel via certain tissues. Problems arise when this tissue gets strained, a condition referred to as plantar fasciitis. Some of the symptoms include heel weakness and swelling.

Bunion

Bunions are bumps that typically grow somewhere near the big toe. It leaves the toe vulnerable and exposed, which can cause a lot of pain.

Ankle and foot stress fractures

Stress fractures can affect different parts of the body. The ankle and foot aren’t immune to them. They bear this name because they usually arise from intense stress in the area in question.

Metatarsalgia

People with an active lifestyle tend to put extra pressure on their feet. The overuse can bring about foot inflammation and pain, often described as metatarsalgia.

Ankle fracture

Athletes are no strangers to ankle fractures. Whether they affect one or multiple ankle bones, they can be a major impediment to normal function.

Turf toe

Active individuals are susceptible to many other foot conditions, including turf toe. It’s a professional term for sprains in the big toe joint ligaments.

How physical therapy can help

Once a licensed physical therapist diagnoses a foot condition, they can apply the following procedures:

• Stretches: Stretching goes a long way to reducing foot pain caused by stiff muscles. Calf stretches, toe pointing, ankle rolls, and bends are the most frequent activities in this group.

• Strengthening exercises: The old saying “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” also applies to feet. However, that’s only true if the physical therapist performs appropriate strengthening exercises. Rotation, flexion, curling, and other movements can significantly reduce foot discomfort.

• Functional movements: These movements complement stretches and strengthening exercises. They’re usually the last physical therapy stage before a person can restore their normal functioning. Hops in multiple directions, single-leg balancing, and step-ups are highly effective functional movements.

Don’t risk exacerbating foot conditions

Some foot conditions resolve themselves, but others require professional assistance. That’s where physical therapy comes into play. Experienced physical therapists can determine the cause of the discomfort and establish the most efficient treatment according to the patient’s needs. Once the road to recovery begins, guided physical therapy sessions will make all the difference.

Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.