The Foolproof Way to Kick Your Foot and Ankle Pain
Is taking the stairs, commuting to work, or walking far distances causing you pain? We all spend a significant amount of time using our feet and ankles throughout the day, and when we experience pain in these areas, it can greatly limit our daily lives. Fortunately, our Victoria multidisciplinary practice can help you find relief for any acute or chronic pains you may be experiencing in your feet or ankles. Contact Equilibrium today at 250-388-7888 or 250-590-7888 to schedule your appointment and find out how our services can help you kick your foot and ankle pains for good!
Why do I have foot and ankle pain?
Your feet and ankles are both very complex structures. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the ankle joint consists of three bones that all must interact with one another correctly, as well as various connective tissues that hold the assembly of the joint together. In order for your feet and ankles to function properly, everything must work together in harmony.
While both structures have their complexities, the foot has an even more intricate make-up than the ankle. The foot is comprised of approximately two dozen bones, 30 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Because the feet and ankles are so complex, it is common for people to sustain injuries in those areas, which can lead to physical limitations. If your foot or ankle pain is limiting your life, book an appointment with Equilibrium today!
Common conditions leading to foot and ankle pain:
Foot and ankle pain typically develops from one of two reasons: a sudden injury or a chronic, underlying condition. Some of the most common causes of foot and ankle pain include:
Sprains and strains.
A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched too far or is torn, while a strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched too far or is torn.
Fracture.
When excessive force or trauma is put on a bone, it can crack or break entirely. This is known as a fracture. A fracture to the foot or ankle could result in weeks of downtime to ensure proper healing.
Tendonitis.
Tendonitis occurs when the tendons are excessively overused, causing them to become inflamed for prolonged periods of time.
Bursitis.
Everyone has anti-friction sacs in their joints, known as the “bursae.” When tendons rub against these sacs, it causes inflammation and irritation known as bursitis.
Arthritis.
Arthritis is common and causes painful inflammation in the joints. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis and both can greatly impact the foot and ankle joints, resulting in pain and decreased function.
Fallen arches.
Your arches are comprised of several tendons. When the tendons pull together properly, your foot will form a proper arch. However, sometimes the tendons do not pull together properly, resulting in a very small arch, or no arch at all. This is referred to as “fallen arches” or “flat feet,” which can cause pain or discomfort over time.
Plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the connective tissue at the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. It is most commonly caused by aggravated overuse, such as improper posture, constant standing, or footwear that lacks proper arch support.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome.
The tarsal tunnel is the nerve that runs from the ankle to the foot. When it becomes pinched or inflamed, tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs.
Contact Equilibrium for foot and ankle pain relief:
Our Victoria physiotherapists, chiropractors, massage therapists and osteopaths are equipped to treat any foot or ankle condition you may be experiencing, whether it be acute or chronic. We will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to figure out where your pain is originating, and then we will design an individualized treatment plan based on your needs.
With an acute injury, it is likely that you will be prescribed a R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) treatment for the first few days, in order to make sure that all swelling subsides. Then more specialized treatments will begin.
If you have chronic pain, your treatment plan will start with specialized and targeted techniques, as the pain has become progressive. These techniques will include targeted and stretching exercises in order to strengthen the foot and ankle muscles, improve balance, and restore joint mobility.
Your therapist may also recommend lifestyle changes or orthotic footwear, in order to ease your pain, boost your circulation, and prevent more problems from occurring in the future.
At Equilibrium, our goal is to provide holistic healing and pain management so you can get back to living your life without limitations. Contact Us Today at one of our three Equilibrium locations in Victoria, BC to schedule your consultation and get started on the first steps toward relief!