Physical Therapy Exercises for Common Foot & Ankle Problems

Series Summary

The foot is a part of the human anatomy that issued for motion and the basis for standing. The human has one pair of feet consisting of the heel, instep, sole, ball, and five toes per foot. The ankle is the joint on the body where the foot meets the leg. Movement and dexterity of the ankle joint helps propel a human body forward. Working in accordance with the foot and leg, the ankle moves by flexing or extending the joint. This is an important action for running, walking, standing, bending, stretching and activities like driving, swimming, exercising, and climbing.

In this series of physical therapy video clips, you will learn more about different methods of caring for your ankle and foot. Learn more about the common foot and ankle problems from our physical therapy specialist. You will get insider tips on different exercises that promote health and fitness in the joints of the ankle and the foot. Watch as our expert demonstrates calf exercises that will strengthen and tone these important muscles. Practice the balance exercises featured in these clips and treat your ankle and foot pain. More importantly, see our expert demonstrate stretches that will prevent injury to your calf, ankle and foot muscles.

Video Transcript

"My name is Monica and today we’re going to be talking about common foot and ankle problems. Some of the more common problems would be ankle sprains and Plantar fasciitis or other arch problems. Generally, ankle sprains, I’m sure everyone has had one. They usually happen on the outside part of the foot, right here. They can happen on the inside. Again, generally it’s most common to have it on the outside here. Swelling and discoloration are common signs that you have some kind of traumatic injury. Ice is very good and elevating, but I’m also going to show you some other exercises you can do to help with your ankle and get it back to where it should be. Another common problem is plantar fasciitis. Your plantar fascia is right here along the arch of your foot. Sometimes it gets irritated, and inflamed. Again, I’ll show you some exercises you can do for plantar fasciitis. As well for just your general arch if you are having problems at work or other issues that are causing you to be on your feet all day, good stretches will help you get rid of your arch problems. "