| Understanding
Joint Pain
Specific questions on your shoulder pain? Schedule a
free consultation in our office by calling 920.233.8739
or click here.
What
Causes Joint Pain?
Joint pain can be caused by many types of injuries or
conditions. Osteoarthritis involves the growth of bone
spurs and degeneration of cartilage at a joint. Bursitis
is also a common joint problem that involves fluid between
muscles and tendons. In other cases, untreated injuries
can affect joint function and cause recurrent pain.
No matter the cause, joint pain can be very bothersome.
One of the most common areas of ongoing joint pain occur
in the ankles or foot. |
| Common
Ankle and Foot Problems
- Ankle
sprains and fractures
- Plantar
Fascitis/Heel spurs
- “Flat
feet” or excessive foot pronation
- Achilles
Tendon strains, tears or ruptures
- Lower
leg cramps and pain
|
| Our
foot and ankle serve many different functions such as
providing stability, adjusting to uneven surfaces and
absorbing shock. These joints require both flexibility
and stability. While many of us have experienced foot
pain or ankle sprains at one time or another, they are
often ignored and no treatment is sought. Over time this
can change the way we stand and walk, putting excessive
stress on the knee and hip joints. |
Treatment
Our therapists will identify the source of the problem
and work with you to restore pain-free movement and strength.
Some of our treatnent goals: |
- Improve
flexibility throughout lower extremity
-
Improve strength of leg and foot muscles
-
Examine footwear and recommend good choices
-
Assess for orthotics (custom arch and foot supports)
if needed
-
Patient education to prevent further injury
|
Tips
for healthy ankles
-
Warm up properly before exercising – this includes
thorough stretching
-
Proper footwear with adequate support
-
Maintain healthy weight and lifestyle
|
Common
Knee Problems
-
Osteoarthritis
-
Ligament strains
-
ACL tears
-
Patellofemoral syndrome (pain under knee cap)
-
Meniscus tears
|
What
causes knee pain?
Although knee pain and/or injury can be common, the list
of potential causes is quite extensive. Lack of flexibility
in the joint or muscle, decreased strength in the quadriceps
or hip muscles, excessive pronation at the feet, improper
running or jumping styles are just a few of the many potential
contributors. Our therapists perform a thorough evaluation
to determine the source of your pain or injury and design
and develop an individualized treatment program to address
the problem. |
Treatment
-
Increase strength and flexibility throughout the lower
extremity – not just at the knee
-
Improve balance and control of movement
-
Examine posture, gait, jumping and running styles
(if appropriate) to educate patient on preventing
further pain and injury
-
Orthotics (custom arch supports) if needed to support
or cushion the foot and ankle
|
|
Tips
for healthy knees
-
Warm up properly before exercising – this includes
thorough stretching
-
Proper footwear with adequate support
-
Maintain healthy weight and lifestyle
|
| If
you have ongoing joint pain, seek medical attention. Click
here to get started. |
| |
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