Foot Pain

Sprains and strains are common injuries that are frequently confused with one another! Sprains occur when a ligament is stretched or torn, whereas strains occur when a muscle or tendon is stretched.

These types of injuries are commonly caused by stepping incorrectly or landing incorrectly. Both of these injuries should be evaluated by a physical therapist to ensure that they heal quickly and that no long-term damage occurs.

Tendinopathy refers to any problem with a tendon, including disease, injury, or disorder. Tendinitis is one such problem that occurs when the tendons become inflamed, causing swelling and pain, particularly when the affected area is moved.

Tendinitis is frequently referred to as an overuse injury or a repetitive stress injury.

The plantar fascia is the long tissue at the bottom of your feet that connects the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that affects the bottom, inner aspect of the heel and worsens after periods of non-weight bearing (i.e., the morning after sleeping, after prolonged sitting).

Although the name implies inflammation, recent research has shown that the plantar fascia is degenerating tissue rather than inflamed tissue.

Neuropathy is a nerve disease that is commonly associated with diabetes, medication toxicity (e.g., chemotherapy), or circulation issues such as peripheral vascular disease.

This condition impairs sensation in the feet and can be especially troublesome when cuts or injuries go unnoticed. Changes in sensation can also make you more prone to balance problems and falls.

Whatever type of foot pain you are experiencing, getting help sooner rather than later will benefit you in the long run. Our physical therapists at Therapy West Physical Therapy + Sports Medicine in Gunnison, Ephraim, Mount Pleasant, Richfield, and Manti, UT will work with you to reduce your pain and get you moving again!

Arthritis is a common condition that causes inflammation and foot pain in the joints. This condition can affect people of all ages, but it usually gets worse as they get older.

The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both types of arthritis damage the cartilage, limiting your range of motion and function over time. Both conditions can have serious consequences for the foot joints.

A fracture happens when a bone is subjected to too much force or trauma, causing it to crack or break completely. Excessive force can be caused by overuse and repetitive stresses, such as when running long distances.

To ensure proper healing, a foot fracture may necessitate weeks of rest and, in some cases, a cast or walking boot.

Bursae are closed, fluid-filled sacs that cushion and aid in creating a smooth, gliding surface between body tissues. These fluid sacs protect the tendons from the bone.

An injury or overuse can cause bursitis (inflammation of the bursae), which prevents tendons from gliding smoothly over the joint and can be painful or even debilitating. This condition frequently affects the foot and heel.

The arches in your foot are formed by several tendons working together with your bones and joints. Your foot will form a proper arch when the tendons pull together correctly, and your joints are stable.

If the tendons do not pull together properly, your foot will form a minimal arch or no arch at all. A “fallen arch” or “flat foot” occurs when the joints and muscles are unable to stabilize and support the arch. Because of the altered gait caused by this condition, this condition is frequently associated with foot pain or pain in the shin and knee regions.

The tarsal tunnel is the groove through which the nerve that runs from the lower leg to the foot travels. When a nerve is irritated or pinched, it causes pain and inflammation.

Sharp, shooting pains, “pins and needles,” or burning sensations in the feet can make this condition debilitating. Fortunately, physical therapy has been shown to help with both acute and chronic pain relief.