Is your foot or ankle pain making every step difficult?
Foot and ankles injuries are among the most common injuries we see at Ward Chiropractic and Rehabilitation. While Dr. Ward has experience with these conditions in Division I athletes, it doesn't take the lifestyle of professional athlete to experience the pain and discomfort of foot and ankle pain. These issues are felt by a magnitude of individuals of all lifestyles; they can develop from a single traumatic event or slowly due to poor foot mechanics and gait. Foot and ankle injuries can make it almost impossible to walk or continue with normal daily activities. Some conditions resolve quickly while others become chronic. Many people simply resign to living with this pain as they feel there may be no other option, but Chiropractic treatment is proven to be one of the most effective means of alleviating foot and ankle pain for good.
"After twisting my ankle while playing basketball with the boys, I needed more help than I thought. Dr. Ward was able to treat my ankle without drugs or invasive procedures. Best of all, my pain is gone!"
Foot Injuries
Plantar Fascititis
This is the most common foot or ankle issue we see in our office. It is often associated with heavy impact and stress towards the heel. This makes the underlining tissue under the inflamed and painful. Burring in the feet in the morning is a common symptom of plantar facititis.
Treatments for plantar facititis include exercises to strengthen the foot, and soft tissue therapy to diminish adhesions. Chiropractic adjustments are also sometimes used to restore proper alignment of the foot. Misalignments in the feet can impact the arches which in turn can irritate the plantar fascia. Supportive footwear also plays a role in symptom resolution.
Ankle Sprains and Strains
Ankle sprains and strains are common in sports activities, but can also occur during daily life. Walking or running on uneven ground, stepping off a curb or slipping can all cause ankle injury. Ankle sprains happen when twisting or rolling of the ankle results in tears in the ligaments which cause pain and discomfort. Ankle strains occur the same way as sprains but the damage is to the muscle or tendon within the ankle.
Initial treatment for this injury consists of rest, ice, compression, elevation. An x-ray or MRI may be ordered to rule out fracture. A period if immobilization may be necessary. As soon as possible gentle passive mobilization is started. This gentle movement helps diminish stiffness and disperse swelling. This is progressed to active exercises and adjustments that restore the proper alignment of the foot and ankle. Balance and sports specific activities are incorporated at the end of treatment.
Pronated Foot
Also known as “flat foot” pronation occurs when there is a collapse of the arch in the foot. This causes issues during running and walking. Each step causes joints and soft tissues in the foot become stretched and irritated. This distortion also causes alignment problems with the knee hip and low back.
Treatment for this condition includes adjustments to the foot, ankle, knee, hip and low back. Restoring proper alignment is the first step necessary to allow healing to take place. Strengthening exercises and specialized footwear may also be incorporated in the later stages of treatment.
Don't let ankle and foot pain interfere with your quality of life. Ward Chiropractic and Rehabilitation in Fairfax, VA is here to help. Call for an appointment or consultation today.