The ankle and knee are quite common joints to injure during sporting activities and many of us will have experienced twisting an ankle very easily whether in the home or just outdoors when walking. This type of twisting injury will normally involve damage to the ligaments around the ankle and knee. If the injury is not too severe then it will heal by itself and there will be no longstanding problems. However, some people can continue to experience pain and disability many months after the initial injury. Your physiotherapist will assess the affected joint to find out what the underlying problem is and set out a treatment plan that best suits your needs. It will normally involve massage, proprioception (balance) and strengthening exercises.

Another common condition found in the ankle is plantar fasciitis. This is where the connective tissue from the heel bone to your toes gets inflamed. It can come on just by overuse or from structural issues in your ankle called over pronation or supination. Long term, the above the problems can start to cause knee, hip, and lower back pain. Your physiotherapist will carry out an in-depth biomechanical assessment of your lower limbs to find out the best treatment plan to resolve and prevent any long-term pain and disability.

Soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations, electrotherapy, and stretching/strengthening exercises may all help regain a return to daily and sporting activities. Sometimes, patients need some orthotics (shoe inserts) that help with severe pronation and supination issues. Your physiotherapist will advise you on the best course of action.

Other conditions treated in the lower Limb

• Post-surgical foot and ankle injuries
• Achilles tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Sports injuries
• Difficulty walking / poor balance