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Have you ever noticed how often people complain of having sore feet? Or, perhaps you are the one who’s constantly letting others know how achy your feet are. Maybe you’ve tried soaking them, getting foot massages, applying foot creams, and keeping off your feet as much as possible. Have these treatments helped much? If not, you may want to consider physiotherapy, which is the ultimate treat for troubled feet.
Foot and Ankle Problems Physiotherapy Can Treat
Physiotherapy isn’t just for people with bad backs or broken bones; it’s also helpful for those with foot and/or ankle problems. Common foot and ankle problems that physiotherapy can help heal include…
- Plantar fasciitis
- Ankle sprains
- Achilles tendinitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Flat feet
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Arthritis
Help for Painful Ankles
Of all the ailments listed above, ankle sprains may be the most common. What is not common is the understanding that physiotherapy is often required for a full recovery from a severely sprained ankle. Some sprains will heal on their own with no problems, but others will need medical attention. As a rule, if your ankle pain lasts more than 24-48 hours or is severe, contact a physician or physiotherapist. As the article Taking Care of Your Foot and Ankle states, “If physical therapy is required, the sprained ankle will be immobilized for a short period to prevent further damage and to give the tissue a chance to heal. After that, therapy progresses quickly with exercises designed to restore stability and strength to the muscles.”
Physiotherapy Provides Relief from Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most uncomfortable foot disorders there is. According to Web MD, “Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling.” Specifically, plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heels and bottoms of your feet when you stand. Thankfully, it can be treated effectively by a physiotherapist. Physiotherapist John Miller wrote, “…plantar fasciitis is reversible and very successfully treated. About 90 percent of people with plantar fasciitis improve significantly within two months of initial treatment.”
The Best Treatment for Arthritis of the Feet
Arthritis, which is inflammation of joints and cartilage, can show up in many parts of the body. A prime place arthritis sets up is in the feet and ankles. Like plantar fasciitis and sprained ankles, arthritis can be successfully treated by a physiotherapist. While this condition cannot be cured, patients can get relief from the pain it causes. Taking Care of Your Foot and Ankle, the article mentioned above, states, “Your physician may suggest taking medication to reduce inflammation. And your physical therapist has many options to help you maintain function and mobility. With the right professional care, you can minimize the effects of arthritis.”
Do you have one of the disorders mentioned here? Or, do you suffer from another foot/ankle condition? Whatever ails you, a physiotherapist may be able to help you get the pain relief you long for. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a physiotherapist today.