Ankle and Foot Injuries

Repetitive strain and sudden trauma (typically involving an inversion movement) are the most common causes of neuromusculoskeletal injuries involving the ankle and foot.

Like all musculoskeletal injuries, patients may present with several signs & symptoms, including but not limited to;

• Pain
• Swelling
• Weakness
• Stiffness
• Deformity
• Restricted movement
• Difficulty ambulating
• Numbness
• Paraesthesia
• Tingling
• Balance issues

The common neuromusculoskeletal diagnoses for injuries of the foot and ankle are:

• Ligament tears and/or strains
• Peroneus longus and brevis strains
• Tibialis anterior strain
• Achilles tendonitis
• Talotibial joint restriction
• Hammertoe
• Cuboid avulsion fractures
• Lateral cuneiform restriction
• Metatarsal phalangeal strain
• Sesamoiditis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles, soleus and gastrocnemius muscle strains

In the absence of acute trauma, management should start with isolating and avoiding any exacerbating or contributing factors that may cause inflammation or ligamentous laxity, such as:

• Wearing Incorrect footwear
• Sustaining irritating positions (sitting on ones foot while performing tasks)
• Allocating insufficient recovery time (particularly after long periods of running/walking)
• Carrying excessive body weight

While it’s important to address the injury directly, it is just as important to address two potential contributing factors;

1. Deficits in joint proprioception
2. Congenital arch abnormalities (high arch or flat foot)

To address these, patients should be introduced to sensorimotor control exercises, balance exercises, and intrinsic foot exercises.

Onward referral to a podiatrist is always advised for patients who are unresponsive to conservative care or for those who are looking to use prescription orthotics.