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Flat feet or pes planus or the misnomer of fallen arches are generally conditions that imply foot pathology. In fact a flat foot really just describes a foot type with very low axis midfoot bones. However a painful flat foot or an acquired flat foot can indicate weakness and or degenerative changes to the tendons and ligaments that support the foot dynamically especially tibialis posterior tendon. However during gait the arch can flatten beyond ideal around the midfoot and forefoot as a compensatory action for weakness at the ankle knee and/or hip joints and their associated muscles. We will assess your foot type but always with reference to the whole body during gait and the interaction between the foot with footwear and the ground. We have the expertise and tools to get you back on your feet again.
Bunion pain can be very debilitating and can lead to swelling, deformity, arthritis to the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint or toes. Shoe fitting is a real problem with these feet conditions. We have the expertise and tools to get you pain free again. We will help you find suitable footwear. Relieve pain with Acupuncture and or foot orthoses. Provide Mobilisation therapy if joint restrictions are an issue. Identify and manage adverse loading patterns during gait that are risk factors to future joint damage and deformity. Refer to Orthopaedic if necessary.
Metatarsalgia is an umbrella term to describe conditions that create mechanical pain across the ball of the foot differential diagnosis includes, Capsulitis, Stress fracture, arthritis, plantar plate tear, intermetatarsal bursitis. Treatment options Foot orthotics, Mobilisation, taping and Acupuncture.
The midfoot comprises of small flat tarsal bones that are essential for effective weighbearing. It links the rearfoot and ankle with the forefoot. This section of feet can be prone to painful arthritis conditions and bone subluxation. Foot mobilisation therapy most suited to improving joint restrictions and movement in this area.
The ankle joint is a hinge joint and the link between the leg and foot. Optimum Ankle joint function is essential for effective walking and running, Dysfunction of this joint will cause compensation by the foot, knee, or low back. A biomechanical examination can identify the affected structures and mechanism of compensation. Foot orthotics, foot mobilisation therapy and Podiatric Acupuncture are considered in the treatment plan.
Tibialis posterior tendon plays a vital role in the stability of feet. If pronation forces acting through the shin and feet also assisted by gravity are greater than the tendon’s supinatory resistance, tissue strain can develop. Tendinitis is a consequence of acute injury to the tendon where tendinopathy implies chronic injury. In the cases where the foot collapses and the individual cannot lift the weight bearing heel inward off the ground, tibialis posterior dysfunction is suspected. An MRI is required to establish if surgery or ankle foot orthoses are necessary. Accurate diagnosis and early intervention with Orthoses, manual therapy dry needling and taping produce positive outcomes and is strongly advised in the treatment of this tendon.