Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that help stabilize your ankle become injured. This may occur when the ankle is excessively turned or rotated, overstretching the ligaments. These overstretched ligaments cause the ankle to lose stability, leading to pain and balance issues. Physical therapy can help by restoring joint range of motion, reducing swelling and edema, strengthening to improve stability, and education on ways to avoid re-injury in the future.
Foot Drop
Foot drop occurs when you do not have enough strength in your ankle to flex your foot up against gravity, known as dorsiflexion. This can occur from general weakness and range of motion dysfunction, or can occur as a result of compression of the deep peroneal nerve in the leg, the sciatic nerve in the thigh, or nerve roots in the spine. Lack of dorsiflexion can lead to problems and safety concerns when you are walking as you are more likely to drag your foot and trip. Physical therapy can help by reducing compression on the nerve and this is achieved through a variety of manual therapy techniques, nerve mobilization exercises, stabilization exercises, postural re-education, strengthening of the ankle dorsiflexors, and gait training.
Neuromas
A neuroma can be one of the many causes of foot pain. A neuroma is defined as a thickening or enlargement of nerve tissue. A Morton’s neuroma is specific to the foot and occurs when the nerve passing between the 3rd and 4th toes becomes entrapped, irritated and compressed. Symptoms include forefoot pain, burning, tingling, cramping, and numbness of the toes. Common things that may cause nerve compression include wearing tight shoes, shoes with a tapered toe box or extremely high heels. Repetitive stress or irritation to the ball of the feet such as running may also cause a neuroma. Neuromas may be treated through physical therapy interventions such as joint mobilization and stretching and well as icing. Orthotics, activity modification, and shoe modifications may help reduce pressure in the foot giving the nerve time to heal.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. With plantar fasciitis, this connective tissue becomes inflamed and can cause a sharp stabbing pain when putting weight on the foot – particularly when taking your first steps in the morning. Pain can be felt at the heel, along the arch and/or the ball of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is common among runners, people who are overweight and those who wear shoes with minimal support. Faulty foot mechanics, such as being “flat-footed” or having high-arched feet, can also contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. Here at Cynergy, we use a combination of manual techniques and stretching exercises to decrease pain and improve the flexibility of the ankle, foot and plantar fascia. Individualized strengthening exercises for the ankle and foot are also provided to improve stability of the ankle and foot while standing and walking. Patient education on supportive footwear and/or shoe inserts is also provided by the physical therapist in order to minimize future stress to the plantar fascia.
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Postoperative Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures can occur through a variety of mechanisms and can widely vary in severity. In the most severe cases, surgery may be indicated to repair the fracture and stabilize the ankle. After surgery the goal of physical therapy is to protect the surgical repair, decrease pain, and improve function. This can be achieved through education on how to protect the repair as it is healing, improving your range of motion and improving your strength.
Stress Injury
A stress fracture is when a small crack occurs in a bone, usually due to high impact activities, overuse, and poor mechanics during exercise. While stress fractures can occur throughout the body, they are most common in the lower extremities, specifically in the shin, ankle and foot. The first goal of physical therapy is to protect the injury, so it does not turn into a full fracture. Following the protective phase, your therapist will assess and address any range of motion or strength impairments, as well as your mechanics to help prevent the risk of re-injury when returning to your prior activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Foot and Ankle Pain?
You might experience foot or ankle pain due to overuse, injuries, improper footwear, or conditions like arthritis and plantar fasciitis. These issues can make daily movements like walking or standing painful and affect your quality of life if left untreated.
How Can Foot and Ankle Physical Therapy Help You?
Foot and ankle physical therapy helps diagnose, treat, and prevent musculoskeletal problems in the lower extremities. Through a customized plan, you can improve mobility, reduce pain, and regain function without depending on medication or surgery. Therapy focuses on correcting imbalances and supporting long-term joint health.
What Conditions Are Commonly Treated with Foot and Ankle Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is beneficial for conditions such as:
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Plantar fasciitis
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Achilles tendinitis
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Ankle sprains and strains
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Heel spurs
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Flat feet or high arches
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Post-surgical rehabilitation
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Stress fractures
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Chronic ankle instability
Each condition requires a unique treatment approach to promote proper healing and prevent recurrence.
What Happens During a Typical Therapy Session?
Your therapy starts with a comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, gait analysis, range of motion testing, and strength assessments. Based on these, your personalized plan may include:
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Manual therapy
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Strengthening exercises
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Balance and proprioception training
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Gait retraining
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Functional activity exercises
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Footwear and orthotics recommendations
Throughout each session, your therapist will ensure you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. They’ll explain every step clearly, listen to your concerns, and adjust the pace to match your comfort level. The goal is to create a welcoming, stress-free environment where you feel confident in your progress.
How Long Does Recovery from Foot or Ankle Pain Take with Physical Therapy?
Recovery time depends on the severity of your condition and how consistently you follow the treatment plan. Some people feel relief within weeks, while more complex cases may need several months of therapy.
Can Physical Therapy Help You Avoid Foot or Ankle Surgery?
Yes, in certain situations, physical therapy can manage your symptoms effectively, reducing the need for surgery. If surgery becomes necessary, therapy still plays a crucial role in preparing you for a better post-surgical recovery.
What Should You Wear to Your Therapy Sessions?
Wear comfortable, supportive footwear and clothing that allows free movement. This makes it easier to perform exercises and receive hands-on therapy without restrictions.
Will Foot and Ankle Physical Therapy Be Painful?
Some discomfort during therapy is normal, especially during stretching or strengthening. However, therapy should not cause severe pain. Your therapist will adjust treatments to your comfort level while promoting steady improvement.
Why Should You Choose Cynergy for Foot and Ankle Physical Therapy?
At Cynergy, you receive personalized, one-on-one care from experienced physical therapists who specialize in foot and ankle conditions. With six convenient New York locations, advanced facilities, and evidence-based treatments, you get the focused attention you deserve. The team works with you to create effective, individualized plans aimed at achieving your specific health goals. You benefit from compassionate care, flexible scheduling, and a dedicated team focused on helping you get back to pain-free, active living.
Schedule Your Foot & Ankle Pain Consultation In NYC!
Our practice has 5 convenient locations throughout New York City where we can give you the care and medical attention you need! Dial (212) 974-7252 today or fill out our contact form by clicking here. Our practice looks forward to serving you!