How Physical Therapy Can Help Your Foot

How Physical Therapy Can Help Your Foot While physical therapy is by definition tailored to the individual's problems and needs, certain procedures are common in dealing with foot and ankle disorders. Typically, your physical therapist will begin your rehabilitation by taking a detailed history and evaluation of your foot and ankle problem. Related problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and vascular disease are assessed during this initial phase.

The second part of your therapy is often gait analysis, in which the physical therapist observes you as you walk or, in some cases, run. The physical therapist will take detailed notes, sometimes using video cameras as a diagnostic tool.

At this point the physical therapist may assess your range of motion - how far and in what directions you can move your foot and ankle, with and without the assistance of the physical therapist. The physical therapist may also perform tests to assess the strength, sensation, and blood circulation in your foot and ankle.

Special tests may be performed as needed, including assessments of individual joints and ligaments. A biomechanical assessment can determine how the foot and ankle align with the lower extremities. your physical therapy goals are met, your physical therapist will help you continue therapy on your own with a home program designed to fit your needs. The goal of physical therapy is to return you to normal activity as quickly as possible, with the knowledge you need to prevent reinjury or disability.