Many of the clients we see for ankle pain are referred by a sports therapist or doctor following an ankle sprain that is not improving after 6 weeks. We also see ankle pain in high loading and repetitive sports such as hockey, football, running, netball and also in young children 9-12 years who exercise 4-7 times a week.
When we see a client for ankle pain our podiatrists often find the pain is caused by a poor footwear selection, loose ankle ligaments, overpronation (flat feet) or oversupination (high arches). We often refer you to a sports physiotherapist or prescribe an x-ray/ultrasound. When the injury is not improving we sometimes refer to a sports physician or orthopaedic surgeon.
Common injuries we have treated include:
- Achilles tendon strains
- Tendon strains on the inside and outside ankle
- Impingements on the outside of the ankle
- Recurrent ankle sprains and unstable ankles
- Fractures and ongoing pain after surgery
Our treatment will often involve:
- An orthotic (insole) to relieve pressure on the ankle and cushion the impact
- The correct footwear prescription for your chosen sport
- A running technique program
- A stretching and strengthening program
- Foot mobilisation/manipulation with our podiatrists or a specialist soft tissue therapists
- A cortisone injection when pain is not improving
- Referral for a x-ray/ultrasound or to a sports physician or orthopaedic specialist
If you are concerned about your ankle or have non improving pain call Bigfoot at our Northcote or Howick clinics for a thorough assessment.
