Kirsty and her foot and ankle pain caused by a ligament strain and then plantar fascia problems.

Kirsty’s Journey

Kirsty, a 33-year-old teacher, had been experiencing foot and ankle pain, specifically a sharp pain on the sole of her left foot when walking. This pain was most noticeable in the morning but began to affect her while running as well. As an avid runner preparing for the Cambridge half-marathon, Kirsty was determined to keep up with her training despite the discomfort.

Diagnosing the Cause

Our examination revealed that Kirsty had excellent spinal rotation but was restricted on the right side of her pelvis, favouring weight-bearing through this leg. We found tender points on the sole of her left foot and noticed it rolled inwards at rest.

Further examination showed a sprain in two ligaments on the outer side of her ankle, likely from a minor stumble while wearing flat sandals.

We explained that even a mild sprain can affect biomechanics, leading to muscle fatigue and plantar fascia pain. This imbalance likely caused Kirsty to favour her opposite leg, contributing to her pelvic restriction.

Treatment

Over four sessions, we focused on loosening the muscles of Kirsty’s left leg and foot and addressing specific joint issues related to the ankle sprain. We also corrected her pelvic imbalance.

Kirsty followed our neuro-muscular rehabilitation program at home to decrease the likelihood of future sprains. This program included exercises to strengthen her muscles and improve her biomechanics, helping her manage her pain effectively.

Understanding Foot and Ankle Pain

Pain can stem from various causes, including ligament strains and biomechanical issues. Targeted treatment and rehabilitation can significantly improve mobility and reduce discomfort, allowing individuals to maintain an active lifestyle.

Take Control

If you’re experiencing foot and ankle pain, don’t let it hold you back from the activities you love. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover how our specialized treatments can help you manage your foot and ankle pain effectively. Our dedicated team is here to support your journey to recovery and improved well-being.