Learn about our Dental services by clicking here www.dentiflow.ca.
Learn about our Dental services by clicking here www.dentiflow.ca.
Learn about our Dental services by clicking here www.dentiflow.ca.
Suffering from ankle or foot pain can transform everyday activities into daunting tasks, making walking, running, or even standing an ordeal. At PhysioFlow, we specialize in providing comprehensive treatment for a variety of ankle and foot conditions, ensuring that you receive the personalized care necessary to step back into life with confidence. Our expert team in Thornhill is equipped with the experience to treat your specific pain sources, helping you find relief and regain your mobility.
Conditions commonly linked to back pain include: Muscle or ligament strain. Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. If you’re in poor physical condition, constant strain on your back can cause painful muscle spasms
The following are some common sources of ankle and foot pain. Click on each link to read more information about the symptoms and remedies for each pain.
An ankle fracture is a break or multiple breaks in one or more of the bones in the ankle joint. Fractures are usually caused by a rotational injury (twisting or rolling) of the ankle, but can also be caused by an impact, such as from a fall. Symptoms include immediate and severe pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to bear weight on the affected ankle. Risk factors include participating in high-impact sports, uneven surfaces, and inadequate footwear.
Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles (uh-KILL-eez) tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. Symptoms often include pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon in the morning, which may improve with mild activity. Overuse, poor stretching habits before exercise, and wearing high heels can increase the risk.
Achilles tendon rupture is when the Achilles tendon, at the back of the ankle, breaks. Symptoms include the sudden onset of sharp pain in the heel. A snapping sound may be heard as the tendon breaks and walking becomes difficult. Risk factors include engaging in activities that involve sudden starts and stops and poor conditioning.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes (plantar fascia). Symptoms include sharp heel pain that is usually worse in the morning. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, and high arches or flat feet.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is one of the most common problems of the foot and ankle. It occurs when the posterior tibial tendon becomes inflamed or torn. This can lead to a loss of arch support, resulting in flatfoot. Contributing factors include overuse, obesity, and hypertension.
A bunion is a painful bony bump that develops on the inside of the foot at the big toe joint. Symptoms include pain, redness, swelling around the joint, and a visible bump on the side of the foot. Risk factors include wearing tight, narrow shoes and genetic predisposition.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), also known as posterior tibial neuralgia, is a compression neuropathy and painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. Symptoms include tingling, burning, or a sensation similar to an electric shock. Risk factors include flat feet, ankle injury, or swelling that compresses the nerve.
Hallux rigidus is a disorder of the joint located at the base of the big toe. It causes pain and stiffness in the joint, making it hard to bend the toe. Risk factors include overuse, inflammatory diseases, and wearing inappropriate footwear.
A hammer toe is a deformity that causes your toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward. This deformity can lead to pain when walking or wearing shoes. Contributing factors include wearing shoes that don’t fit properly and muscle imbalance.
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the bloodstream. The symptoms of gout are due to the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints and the body's response to them. Gout generally affects the joint in the base of the big toe. Risk factors include diet, obesity, and certain health conditions.
At PhysioFlow, we’re committed to not just treating symptoms but addressing the root causes of your ankle and foot pain. Our tailored treatment plans in Thornhill may include physiotherapy, pain management techniques, and personalized advice on preventing future injuries. Don’t let ankle and foot pain hold you back. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
Preventing ankle and foot pain involves a combination of lifestyle choices and practical measures. Regular exercise that includes strength training and stretching can improve the muscles’ support around your ankles and feet, enhancing stability and flexibility. Choosing the right footwear is essential; shoes should provide adequate support and fit properly to avoid unnecessary strain. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce the stress on your feet and ankles. Finally, listening to your body and avoiding overexertion can prevent many overuse injuries.
Yes, orthotic devices can make a significant difference in treating ankle and foot pain by providing necessary support, correcting alignment issues, and redistributing pressure away from painful areas. Custom orthotics, designed specifically for your foot structure and condition, can be particularly effective. They can help manage various conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and bunion pain. While over-the-counter options are available, custom-fitted orthotics fitted by a specialist can offer more targeted relief and long-term benefits.
The recovery time from ankle and foot injuries varies significantly depending on the severity of the injury, the specific condition, and the treatment method employed. Minor sprains and strains may heal within a few weeks, while severe injuries such as fractures or tendon ruptures may require several months to fully recover. Adhering to a personalized treatment plan, including physiotherapy and proper rest, is crucial for a successful recovery. It’s important to set realistic expectations and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance throughout the recovery process.
Follow-up care is vital after treatment for ankle and foot pain to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment, monitor the recovery process, and prevent the recurrence of injury. Regular check-ups allow healthcare providers to assess recovery progress, make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan, and provide guidance on safely resuming activities. Follow-up care also offers an opportunity for clients to address any concerns or questions that may arise during their recovery. Ensuring a complete and successful recovery often depends on the quality of follow-up care and the client’s adherence to prescribed rehabilitation and preventive measures.
Shockwave therapy is a very effective modality in treating chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis, especially in cases where other treatments have not led to significant improvement. This non-invasive therapy uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in the affected area, promoting blood flow, breaking down scar tissue, and enhancing tissue repair and cell growth. Individuals often experience relief from pain and improvement in function after undergoing shockwave therapy in Thornhill. Book your assessment with one of our registered physiotherapists to see if shockwave therapy is a suitable option for your plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.
