Virtual PT: An effective way to learn some causes of and treatments for foot tendinitis

Are you experiencing extreme pain on the top of your foot? You could have foot tendinitis. This is a common condition that can often be helped through the frequent use of physical therapy. However, in this day and age, in-person physical therapy might not be an option. Here’s why virtual physical therapy may be a good alternative for you.

What is foot tendinitis?

Foot tendinitis  is the inflammation or tearing of the tendons located around your foot or ankle. These bands of tissue are meant to help with balance and equilibrium in your feet and ankles. They help with these things by attaching muscles to bones, which also makes them a link in your ability to move your feet and ankles.

What are some of the symptoms?

• Foot pain or ankle pain.

• Swelling around the foot or ankle.

• Stiffness or weakness around the foot or ankle.

What are the causes?

• Acute injury — Food tendinitis can be a result of an acute injury from exercise, playing sports or other factors like the ones listed below.

• Overuse — It most often occurs from overuse or repetitive movements, which can lead to injury. 

• Lack of stretching — Not stretching the muscles and tissue in the foot can cause strain and could contribute to the inflammation of tendons.

• Overweight — If you are overweight or obese, you may be more prone to inflammation of your tendons.

How can foot tendinitis be diagnosed by a virtual physical therapist?

Your virtual physical therapist can usually determine if you are suffering from a foot tendon issue. For instance, they can evaluate your range of motion and pain level by putting you through a movement screening. Yet they may also suggest that you get an ultrasound, MRI or X-ray to verify their diagnosis.

What are some treatments that a virtual PT specialist may recommend for foot tendinitis?

• Ice — Repeated use of ice on the affected area can temporarily help to reduce swelling throughout the day, and can reduce pain.

• Elevation — Keeping the foot elevated can help reduce any swelling in the foot. 

• Compression — Applying pressure or wearing a compression sock or sleeve could help reduce swelling and pain.

• Supportive footwear — Supportive footwear can be helpful for pain relief by lifting or supporting any parts of the foot or ankle that may be inflamed.

• Physical therapy — Physical therapy is designed to help rehabilitate and strengthen your body, and could help alleviate any pain or irritation you might be experiencing. A virtual physical therapist can build a customized, therapeutic exercise program that is designed to alleviate pain and prevent further inflammation of your foot tendons.

It’s important to seek treatment for foot tendinitis if possible, because failing to do so could result in chronic pain and could impair your ability to walk. That’s where Agile Virtual Physical Therapy comes in.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.