Most injuries in this area involve a strain of the gastrocnemius and Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the most common site of overuse in the lower extremity and the most frequently ruptured tendon in the body. The ankle sprain most frequently occurs during sporting activity and maybe the most commonly injured ligament in the body.
The foot is more susceptible to degenerative issues rather than acute injuries. However, the more painful conditions of the foot originate from the soft tissue.
How the foot and ankle are functioning can have a huge impact on the knee, hip and spine.
Factors that may influence pain in the ankle, leg and foot:
- Leg length inequality
- Pelvic imbalances
- Misalignment of the patella
- Flat feet
- Previous injuries
- Loss of extension in the great toe
- Immobilisation which weakens the tissue
- Fatigue from static or dynamic stress, such as prolonged standing [static] or running [dynamic]
When you come for treatment first we take a full history. You may be surprised how detailed this can be. We believe that we need the whole story to get the treatment right for you. This is followed by a practical, hands on examination; from this we will discuss our findings, insights and a bespoke treatment plan will be devised and shared with you.
We never know how many treatments will be required, however we continually assess. Generally we say that a difference will be noted after 4 treatments and we will update our treatment plan to suit.