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Pain in the Foot and Ankle


Ankle

The anterior talofibular ligament is the most commonly sprained ligament in the body, usually when rolling over on the outside of the foot. This ligament contains many nerve endings (which is why it is so painful), that informs the brain of the position of the ankle in space. Damage to the ligaments disrupts this mechanism, which is why repeated ankle sprains are common. Treatment to the ankle helps re-educate the brain of the position of the ankle to reduce further occurrence.

Ankle spains can also pull on the fibula and cause problems at the fibula head, mimicking problems at the knee.



Foot

Pain on the sole of the foot can often be due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a triangular ligamentous structure that helps maintains the arches of the foot. The pain is often very sharp and stabbing in nature. This can traction at its insertion into the heel and eventually cause a heel spur.

The foot is a very complex stucture and dysfunction can result between any of the bones of the foot causing restricted movement and altered gait. This can affect other parts of the body such as the knee hip or back, as the body tries to compensate for the structural change. Osteopathic treatment to the foot and ankle restores the biomechanic functioning of the complex, relieving pain and preventing dysfunction from ascending through the rest of the musculoskeltal system.


Hitchin Osteopathic Clinic, Old Park Dental Surgery, 72 Old Park Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG5 2JT 01462 432609