Are you suffering with foot & Ankle pain?
At Vertical Sports PT, we not only know what it takes to recover but also how to prevent these injuries from happening as frequently. Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries we treat. They can range from mild, low-grade sprains to more severe ones, each requiring a different treatment process. Many people think they should simply rest, elevate, compress, and ice their ankles after a sprain. While some of those modalities are necessary, research shows it’s important to bear weight and start walking as soon as possible – as long as the pain isn’t excruciating. This helps kickstart the healing process and leads to a quicker return to sports compared to resting completely.
What is Foot & Ankle Pain?
Foot and ankle pain is a condition that particularly resonates with the founder of Vertical Sports Physical Therapy, Dr. Adam Shildmyer, as he sprained his ankle 10-15 times during his time as a college basketball player. Adam knows how debilitating it can be and the detrimental impact it can have on an individual’s quality of life.
What are the symptoms of Foot & Ankle Pain?
Sharp or throbbing discomfort, swelling, bruising, or stiffness, are common complaints of foot and ankle pain. The direct consequence of this is an inability to walk or climb stairs. Many experience a lack of stability, where the ankle feels weak or prone to “giving out.” Pain may also radiate into the leg or knee due to compensation, especially with chronic issues or untreated injuries. Limited range of motion and tenderness around the joint are also common, impacting both daily activities and athletic performance.
In the past, many have tried the R.I.C.E. method – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – believing this alone would resolve the issue. While these steps can help reduce swelling and initial tenderness, they often fail to address the root cause, such as muscle imbalances or joint deterioration. Some rely on over-the-counter pain relievers or avoid putting weight on the joint altogether, which can delay healing and lead to recurring problems if not treated correctly.
What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating Foot & Ankle Pain?
At Vertical Sports Physical Therapy, we take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treating foot and ankle pain, focusing on both the immediate relief of symptoms and the long-term prevention of recurring issues. We begin the treatment process with a thorough evaluation of the foot, ankle, and entire lower extremity to identify the root cause of the problem, such as mobility restrictions, strength deficits, or improper biomechanics. This “bottom-to-top” approach ensures that the entire kinetic chain, including the knees and hips, is addressed.
Our treatment plan typically includes:
- Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and stretching are used to reduce tension, improve mobility, and relieve pain in the foot and ankle.
- Progressive Strengthening: Specific exercises target weak or underactive muscles to restore stability, improve function, and support the ankle and foot during dynamic movements.
- Functional Training: Patients work on movement patterns and sport-specific activities to safely transition back to their desired level of activity.
- Patient Education: We provide guidance on proper footwear, posture, and strategies to prevent future injuries is a key part of the process.
Ultimately, we focus on creating a tailored plan that strengthens the foot and ankle and sets athletes up for long-term success.
Download Our Free Report
Is foot or ankle pain stopping you from competing in your sport or performing at a high level? Don’t let it sideline the hobbies and activities you love most. Our free foot and ankle pain report uncovers the key causes of pain and provides expert tips to relieve discomfort, improve strength, and avoid future injuries. Take control of your recovery and get back on your feet.