Are you struggling to manage persistent foot and ankle pain? You’re not alone. These types of pain affect roughly 184 in every 1,000 people throughout the span of their lives. It’s more prevalent among women than men, especially in people over 50. If you’re someone dealing with foot and ankle pain, help is available. Physical therapy is often one of the best treatment options.
Causes of Foot and Ankle Pain
Foot and ankle pain are usually closely connected — an issue with one will often impact the other. In fact, a 2019 study found that only 1 in 11 people report having foot pain alone. More often they reported pain in other joints or areas of the body as well. One possible reason behind this is that many parts of the lower body (feet, ankles, knees, etc.) share the same nerve network. Also, conditions that affect the foot can be linked to other parts of the lower body or even the back.
This means that the causes of this type of pain can vary significantly. Common causes of foot and ankle pain include:
- Tendinitis in your Achilles tendon.
- Bone spurs.
- Fallen arches or flat feet.
- Wearing shoes with poor support.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Arthritis.
- Pinched or damaged nerve.
- Poor circulation.
- Gout.
- Bursitis.
- Injury.
If you don’t see the possible cause of your foot and ankle pain listed here, you can speak to a licensed physical therapist about it. They’ll be able to figure out what is most likely causing your pain and develop a plan of treatment.
Symptoms You May Experience Along With Foot and Ankle Pain
The most common symptoms of foot and ankle pain include:
- Tenderness around the area of the foot or ankle.
- Pain in the foot or ankle when walking.
- Stiffness in the foot or ankle when walking.
- Discomfort when putting weight on the foot or ankle.
- Weakness in the foot or ankle.
Multiple symptoms can often be felt at the same time.
Treatments for Foot and Ankle Pain
Many cases of foot and ankle pain may go away on their own. However, when you experience significant or persistent pain, it’s time to consider your options.
If you’re experiencing foot and ankle pain that just won’t go away on its own, you should consider visiting our clinic. At REPAIR SI, our physical therapists are experienced in providing unique services to their patients, including the following:
- Physical therapy.
- Acupuncture.
- Chiropractic care.
- Fitness training.
Our team at REPAIR SI can provide you with natural, noninvasive treatment for foot and ankle pain. Getting to the root of conditions sometimes involves multiple modalities, such as the treatment methods listed above. Our team strives to improve the lives of our patients so that we can help make happier, healthier people out in the world.