The Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Podiatric Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries can severely affect our daily lives, making even the simplest tasks challenging and painful. So, if you sustained a sprain, fracture, or dislocation, it’s crucial to get immediate medical care.

In addition to treatments like surgery, getting podiatric physical therapy is vital to regain the overall functions of the injured body parts. Here’s why this physical rehabilitation method is essential:

• Pain Management
Foot and ankle injuries often come with intense pain and discomfort. With physical therapy, you can better manage these symptoms and promote proper healing. Podiatrists employ pain management techniques, such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ice and heat therapy, and even manual methods, such as foot mobilization or therapeutic massages.

• Mobility and Strength Restoration
After an injury or a surgical treatment, your muscles and joints may become stiff and weak, hindering you from going about your usual daily routine. Physical therapy techniques can help regain the functionality and full range of motion of your injured foot and ankle.

When you consult a podiatrist, they will create a personalized exercise program that addresses your specific condition. Aside from increasing mobility and strength, thus promoting stability, these exercises will help prevent future injuries.

• Gait Analysis and Correction
Incorporating physical therapy in podiatric treatments also helps detect and fix potential gait problems after foot and ankle surgery. An abnormal walking pattern can affect your quality of life and even lead to further injuries, so they must be corrected. A physical therapist can perform gait analysis techniques to identify faulty walking patterns and provide ideal corrective strategies.

• Custom Orthotic Prescription
In some cases, foot and ankle injuries require custom orthotics or braces to aid rehabilitation. Since podiatrists specialize in foot care, they can determine whether you need additional support or alignment and prescribe the ideal devices accordingly.

Get Reliable Foot Care Services Near You

Podiatric physical therapy is essential in successfully healing foot and ankle injuries. If you sustain any, get in touch with a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan, ensuring a quick and successful recovery. Contact Thomas Podiatry & Associates in Salisbury, MD for trusted foot care services.