5 Ways Physical Therapy Makes For Fitter Feet!

Kentlands Foot & Ankle Center understands the value of conservative treatments and natural remedies; in fact, Dr. Sherman was featured in Business Insider a few months ago discussing just that! It should come as no surprise, then, that our team places such a high value on the power of physical therapy, which can make a difference for a wide range of lower extremity ailments.

This blog will cover five different conditions and circumstances that PT alleviates, improves, or even prevents. Let’s kick things off!

1. Plantar Fasciitis:

This prevalent problem inflicts heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting your heel to your toes. Physical therapists can design personalized plantar fasciitis stretches with a custom program that improves flexibility, reduces pain, and prevents future flare-ups.

2. Ankle Sprains:

Rolled ankles are frequent, painful injuries, stretching or tearing the ligaments that stabilize your joints. Physical therapy can provide an ankle sprain recovery regimen and ankle strengthening exercises to help you regain range of motion, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve proprioception (your body’s awareness of joint position). This, in turn, will reduce pain, swelling, and the risk of future sprains.

3. Achilles Tendinitis:

Overuse can inflame the Achilles tendon, causing pain in the back of your heel. Physical therapy focuses on reducing inflammation, improving flexibility, and strengthening the calf muscles to better support the tendon.

4. Arthritis:

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the foot and ankle joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Physical therapists can create an exercise program to maintain joint mobility, strengthening surrounding muscles while improving balance. This helps manage pain, maintain function, and potentially delay the need for surgery.

5. Post-Surgical Recovery:

After foot or ankle surgery, physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and range of motion. A personalized program helps restore proper gait mechanics and function, ensuring a smooth and successful recovery.

As you can see, physical therapy can do all kinds of good for your feet and ankles, healing them when they’re hurt and maintaining them when they’re fit.

Interested in learning more? We’re always available and happy to help! Schedule a comprehensive foot examination with Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center podiatrist Dr. Jon M. Sherman. To make your appointment, please call our office at 301-330-5666.