Foot problems can have a substantial influence on our mobility, quality of life, and general health. Foot problems can be debilitating, whether caused by an injury, a chronic ailment, or the wear and tear of regular activity. Physical therapy is a valuable and effective treatment option for a variety of foot ailments.
Rehabilitation after dislocation and rupture surgeries is identical to chronic ankle sprain with the exception of measures and prudence when moving. However, rehabilitation following surgery would most certainly take longer to fully restore ankle joint range of motion, strength, and function.
After the operation, the ankle is cast for four weeks and then cast/orthosis for two weeks. Cardiovascular conditioning and upper and lower leg muscular strengthening are performed while immobilized.
Why is it important?
The first few physical therapy sessions following surgery should help manage discomfort and swelling. To alleviate discomfort, ice and electrotherapy treatments might be performed.
Exercises aimed at enhancing ankle joint range of motion are also performed. First, exercises are performed to increase range of motion without putting too much strain on the joints. To prevent stress on the ligaments, active lifting of the foot route up and path out is avoided in the early stages of recovery (about 6 to 8 weeks following injury / surgery).
When the patient can bear leaning on the leg without pain, ankle mobility exercises with active lifting of the foot up and out begin.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis
Physical therapists who specialize in foot care provide a complete evaluation to determine the root causes and contributing factors to foot disorders. They can accurately identify the disease and establish a specific treatment plan using a mix of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.
Pain Control and Management
Physical therapy tries to reduce pain and discomfort caused by foot disorders. Manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities such as heat or cold therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation, aiding recovery.
Restoring Foot Function and Mobility
Physical therapy is critical in regaining foot function and mobility. Therapists design specific exercise programs to increase foot and ankle strength, flexibility, and range of motion. They also offer gait training and balance exercises to help you improve your stability and coordination.
Individualized Treatment Strategies
Physical therapists use a variety of therapy approaches that are adapted to the needs of each individual. These could include:
- Manual treatment methods
Stretching, soft tissue mobilization, and joint mobilization to improve flexibility and joint function.
- Exercising for therapeutic purposes
Exercises to strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles while focusing on balance, stability, and proprioception.
- Assistive devices and orthotics
Recommending and fitting orthotic inserts, braces, or footwear to patients to support foot alignment and function.
Education and prevention
Physical therapists not only treat patients but also educate them on self-care and preventive measures. They provide advice on suitable footwear, foot care techniques, and ergonomics in order to reduce the likelihood of future foot disorders. Physical therapists enhance long-term foot health and lessen the chance of recurring disorders by arming individuals with knowledge.
Approach Based on Collaboration
To provide comprehensive therapy, physical therapists collaborate with other healthcare experts such as podiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, and sports medicine specialists. This collaborative approach ensures an integrated treatment plan and allows the healthcare team to communicate effectively.
Post-Operative Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is essential during the rehabilitation process for those who have foot surgery. Therapists provide rehabilitation plans to promote healing, restore function, and ease the return to regular activities and sports.
Don’t forget Hygiene!
Complement your daily care by washing and applying moisturizing cream with a foot massage. Rub each finger separately in a circular motion and bend it downwards and upwards as much as possible - individually and all fingers together. Rub the heel and ankles on both sides, and rub the soles of the feet intensively with the wrist. In this way, you will improve the elasticity of soft tissues (muscles, fascia, ligaments), stimulate circulation, and what is most important for women, reduce foot swelling. Then try to grasp the foot lengthwise with your fist as if you were breaking bread, pushing your toes as far as possible into the sole and slightly spreading them to the side. This frees the sole and provides a completely new support.