Hello, Class!  During this time of year when you are strolling the cement floors of shopping malls and city sidewalks, you may notice your "dogs" (feet) yipping at you that all is not jolly down there.  And because they may affect your posture and gait, problems at the feet can have repercussions for the knee, the hip and the low back.

The American Physical Therapy Association Book of Body Maintenance and Repair (this book would make a great Christmas gift for anyone on your list who is sincere about staying healthy, mobile and strong) states, "Inflammation is far more serious in the ankle and foot than it is anywhere else in the musculoskeletal system other than the wrist and hand.  When inflammation occurs, fluids can become trapped in the compact ankle and foot area.  If not addressed, these fluids may change from a soft substance into a fibrous, glue-like substance.  At the least, recovery is delayed; at the worst permanent dysfunction in the foot may result."

"Some ankle and foot conditions, such as mild sprains and shin splints, call for simple home treatments like rest and ice.  Others demand more advanced physical therapy techniques.  Still other problems require surgery or other major interventions, although these, too, are usually complemented with an exercise program designed by a PT as part of the rehabilitation stage."  

The staff at Alliance Physical Therapy is trained and experienced in the care and treatment of foot and ankle pain, so if you are suffering . . . let us help you soon.

Yours in health,

Karen