Ankle and Heel Pain
Muscular Strains or Tears
Calf tears are most common in the superficial muscle (gastrocnemius) but may also occur in the deeper muscle group (soleus). Tears to the calf are quite painful and restrictive, causing difficulty with walking. Treatment focuses on decreasing muscle tightness, supporting tissue healing and restoring normal strength and movement.
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Shin splints is a overload bone stress injury, typically caused by increased running or sports. If left untreated, this may eventually lead to stress fractures in the shin bone. Treatment focuses on reducing loading, optomising biomechanics and strength, followed by a graded return to activity as tolerated.
Achilles Tendinopathy
The Achilles tendon attaches to calf muscles into the back of the heel. Chronic overload causes pain, stiffness and inflammation in the tendon. If left untreated the Achilles tendon can rupture which requires surgery. Achilles tendinopathy treatment involves managing weakness and muscle tension, activity and footwear modifications, and gradual loading exercise to promote tendon remodelling and increase exercise tolerance.
Sprains and Ligament Tears
This is the most common injury to the ankle. Generally, the outside of the ankle is more commonly affected due to the nature and structure of the ankle allowing more range of motion. Treatment of most ligament strains and tears is non-surgical unless chronic instability arises or there is large amounts of damage to ligaments (these often occur in conjunction with a fracture). Reduced weight bearing, bracing or taping and swelling management is initial priority. Rehabilitation is essential to restore range of movement, balance, strength and minimise the risk of reinjury. Following this, taping or bracing during return to sport can be effective with the goal of reducing support as you grow stronger.
Syndesmosis Injury
Between the two bones of the shin is a band of connective tissue called the syndesmosis. When this ligament is injured, it can cause instability and pain extending up the leg. Severe injuries may require surgery to repair the connective tissue and provide stability to the ankle. Treatment for this injury begins with a moon boot and restricted loading through crutches. Once you are able to walk pain free and come out of the moonboot, exercise based rehabilitation is essential to regain full movement, strength, balance and function.
Contact Free Movement Physio to book an appointment for a one on one consultation to discuss your ankle and heel concerns.
