Podiatry – For all Leg, Foot & Ankle pain

What is it and how can it help?

Podiatry is a branch of medicine that is devoted to the study, diagnosis and treatment of the lower limb and foot. Typically, when people imagine podiatry, they think ingrown toenails, skin conditions and management of general foot health. Whilst this is an accurate perspective, there is an aspect of Podiatry that the wide majority of the community are unaware of. Podiatrists also complete rigorous study in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, gait abnormalities and balance issues.

As our knowledge of sport medicine advances, so does our understanding of the human bodies physical function and the pivotal role of the foot and ankle. In the simplest of terms, we can refer to the human body as a building and the feet as its base. Without a strong, supportive and congruent base the building is unstable, despite the strength of the building above. Similarly, a deficiency in the structural integrity of the base will have an effect on the above structures. This analogy is absolutely accurate for individuals from all walks of life. Issues higher up the chain, such as back, hip and knee pain can at times be resolved by adjusting the structural alignment of the foot and ankle.

There are many people who may suffer from problems that can be resolved and/or managed with podiatric intervention. Many of those effected by a ‘general soreness’ after exercise or throughout the day quickly accredit the pain to aging or ‘slowing down’. However, it is typically more likely to be a result of structural malalignment, a strength deficiency, surface instability or a gait abnormality which with the help of your podiatrist, can be resolved. Here are some examples of common complaints that Podiatrists can help with:

• Ankle pain & ankle sprains

• Shin splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

• Heel & Plantar fasciitis

• Calf soreness/tightness

• Knee pain such as I-T Band friction syndrome

• Achilles pain / Achilles tendinitis / tendinosis

• Bunions

• Pain at the base of the foot

• Back pain

• Metatarsalgia

Successful treatment of these conditions can be achieved with the use of advanced therapies such as strength and conditioning, footwear adjustment and offloading or orthotic intervention.

Whether you are an elite athlete striving to compete at the highest level of your sport, or an individual who is looking to get moving again following foot or ankle pain, podiatry provides a solid foundation to build strength and fitness longevity. Regular check-ups are advisable for good health as Podiatrists can also help detect changes in the foot that may represent other system involvement like neurological conditions, peripheral neuropathies, balance issues, diabetes, vascular problems and arthritis.

If you have any concerns relating to your foot and ankle, contact the clinic to make an appointment today.