Foot & Ankle
Foot and ankle play a big role in supporting your entire body, contributing to balance, posture, and general well-being. Keeping them healthy is essential for maintaining mobility, preventing discomfort, and ensuring long-term musculoskeletal health.
Problems with the feet and ankles can result from structural and functional issues affecting the joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. This discomfort may be localised to specific areas like the heel, ball of the foot, ankle, or between the toes. It can occur while standing, walking, or even persist at rest, hence affecting work, sleep, and other daily activities.
Common Foot & Ankle Conditions
- Ankle and mid-foot osteoarthritis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- 1st MTP
- Ankle sprains
- Neuromas
- Sinus tarsi syndrome
- Gout
- Calf tear
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis
- Mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy
- Baxter’s nerve entrapment
Diagnosis
A diagnostic assessment involves a series of tests designed to evaluate the muscles, joints, and tendons of the ankle and foot. Conducted when standing, sitting, and walking, this assessment helps identify structural or functional issues contributing to pain or discomfort. Circulation, sensation, and medical history are also reviewed so as to ensure a comprehensive diagnosis.
The goal is to pinpoint the cause of pain, replicate symptoms when possible, and determine the best treatment options. However, further testing may be required in some cases, including imaging or referral to a physiotherapist.
Treatment Options
Orthotic solutions
Many common foot and ankle conditions can be effectively managed with foot orthoses. Unlike generic insoles, which mainly provide cushioning or odour control, orthoses are medical devices designed to redistribute pressure away from stressed joints and tissues. Their design is tailored to an individual’s foot shape, posture and gait, hence guaranteeing targeted support and relief.
There are various types of orthoses, ranging from prefabricated models for specific conditions to fully tailored solutions moulded to the patient’s foot. The level of customisation varies, with some requiring modifications such as heat moulding or additional support features. Most bespoke orthoses are crafted based on a prescription to make sure that they meet the needs of each patient.
Steroid injection therapy
When pain persists despite rest or orthoses, steroid injections may be an option, particularly for conditions such as plantar fasciitis and neuromas. These injections help reduce inflammation and provide relief normally within a few days.
Most patients can receive up to three shots per year, with a minimum six-week interval between treatments. The injection includes methylprednisolone with a local anaesthetic, offering immediate short-term relief, followed by a longer-lasting anti-inflammatory effect.
Summary
Both foot and ankle play huge roles in the body. Thus, it’s important to address pain and other related conditions early to prevent long-term issues and improve mobility.
Contact us now for more information or to book an appointment. We will help you find the right support or treatment for your feet to ensure that you regain comfort in your daily life.