Feet

The foot is the lower part of the leg that provides support and enables body movement. It is made up of 26 bones, more than 30 joints, and over 100 muscles, ligaments, and tendons, which together allow for mobility and stability. The bones of the foot are divided into three parts: the tarsus (ankle bones), the metatarsus (bones of the midfoot), and the phalanges (toes). The foot also plays an important role in absorbing shock during walking, running, and other activities, acting as a cushion that mitigates the stress transferred to larger joints in the body, such as the knees and hips. Physiotherapists often treat issues related to the foot, such as injuries, deformities, and pain, and provide advice on appropriate movement and footwear to maintain foot health.

How can physiotherapy help you?

Physiotherapists deal with various conditions and problems related to the feet, using methods such as manual therapy, exercises to improve mobility and strength, and advice on proper footwear. Some common issues that physiotherapists encounter related to the feet include:

• Plantar fasciitis: inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. It often causes pain in the heel.
• Achilles tendinitis: inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can cause pain and swelling in the back of the heel.
• Hallux valgus: a deformity where the bone at the base of the big toe protrudes. This can lead to pain and tenderness.
• Metatarsalgia: pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.
• Morton’s neuroma: thickening of tissue around a nerve between the third and fourth toes, causing pain, numbness, or tingling in the toes.
• Flat feet: a condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally flat, which can lead to pain and biomechanical issues.
• Excessive pronation or supination of the foot: improper foot rotation during movement, which can lead to uneven shoe wear and the development of pain.
• Stress fractures: microscopic fractures in bones caused by overuse, most commonly in the metatarsal bones.
• Arthritis: inflammation of the joints that can affect various parts of the foot and ankle, causing pain and limiting movement.