We spend a lot of time on our feet so it’s no wonder foot and ankle pain, and discomfort in the heel and arches are common problems for every age group.
How do Foot and Ankle Problems Affect You?
Foot and ankle problems make daily activities such as, walking, standing, using stairs,and running difficult. It also means you a can have trouble going from a seated position to a standing one without pain, and can have trouble walking your kids to and from the bus stop. If you or someone you know is experiencing foot/ankle pain, know that you are not alone! Approximately one-fourth of the population is affected by foot/ankle problems at any given time! The foot and ankle are intricate structures that provide your body its foundation, and when not working properly, can alter the function of your knees, hips, back, and even your posture. That is why it is so important to treat the problem now rather than trying to push through the pain and risk further injury, that could prevent you from doing the things your love.
The most frequent complaint we see in people that are experiences foot/ankle pain, us that pain at the ankle joint can radiate up into the leg or down into the heel. One foot condition we treat here at LSTC is plantar fasciitis.
What is Your Plantar Fascia?
It is a thick band of connective tissue that extends from your heel bone to the bottom of the toes. Its purpose it to support the arch of your foot. A symptom associated with your plantar fasciitis includes heel pain. Usually this type of heel pain is worst in the morning but then improves throughout the day.
If plantar fasciitis and general foot pain is not taken care of, it can cause dysfunctions up the chain, into your knees, hep and even your back. That’s because to compensate for this pain, you have an abnormal gait or walking pattern. This ‘trickle down’ effect can lead to further restrictions. You may have difficulty bending over to tie your shoes, bathing, or exercising.
This ‘Trickle Down’ Effect is Why it is so Important to see a Physical Therapist.
A physical therapist will be able to assess your pain and discomfort and determine what exactly is causing it. They will then be able to set up an individualized plan, that will put you on the road to recovery, and will get you back to doing what you love pain free! Physical therapy is a very effective treatment method to relieve a condition like plantar fasciitis and general foot and ankle discomfort. It will help to:
- decrease pain and inflammation
- improve joint mobility
- decrease muscle tightness
- improve motor control of the ankle’s stabilizing muscles
Call Loudoun Sports Therapy Center, at 703-450-4300, TODAY to schedule your evaluation! Don’t let ankle and foot pain keep you from doing what you love!
CLICK HERE to learn more about what can cause Plantar Fasciitis
