There are many different causes of foot pain ranging from bunions to plantar fasciitis to an Achilles tendon rupture. Overuse or injury can cause pain and inflammation to any part of the foot including its 107 ligaments and 19 muscles.
Physiotherapists play a vital role in managing foot pain. They begin by carrying out a thorough assessment including gait analysis (different positions of the foot during movement), joint mobility, strength of feet and testing for muscle tightness. This allows them to determine the cause of the foot pain in order to help treat it.
Treatment can range from person to person depending on the injury. Here are some examples:
- HYDROTHERAPY – exercises in warm water to help relax and strengthen feet muscles and joints. This is done on a regular basis to result in gradual improvements
- ULTRASOUND – this is where high frequency sound waves are used to stimulate blood flow to deeper foot injuries. This usually acts as a catalyst in recovery and provides some pain relief. This is similar to TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)where a small electric current is used to provide pain relief in the inflamed area.
- MANUAL THERAPY/MASSAGES – This is where the physiotherapist physically manipulates your muscles and joints. This has many benefits such as relaxation to stiff areas, improved blood circulation and pain relief.
- ACUPUNCTURE – This technique involves the use of fine needless to selected parts of the body to treat pain.
If you feel that physiotherapy can help you overcome and manage your foot pain, please contact Home Physio Group on 0330 335 1016 to talk to our team, or alternatively, please use the contact form on the website and we will reach out to you.