Ankle sprains are injuries to the ligaments within the ankle. When the foot twists beyond its normal range of movement, the ligaments can overstretch or tear. These injuries can happen in a variety of ways, and depending on the severity, healing can take anywhere from two weeks to two months. Physical therapy can help you maintain the maximum amount of physical activity while not reinjuring your ankle, and can help you recover quickly and alleviate ankle and foot pain.

Ankle instability develops when the outer ankle gives way repeatedly, often seen after a series of sprains or strains. Sometimes, this condition can develop when a sprain heals incorrectly. Physical therapy will help strengthen the ankle to retrain your muscles and prevent reinjury.

Broken bones in your ankle or foot can cause serious pain and prevent normal physical activity. Symptoms include swelling, pain, tenderness, bruising, and the inability to put weight on the injured leg. There are several types of ankle and foot fractures, but it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately if you suspect you may have a fracture. Physical therapy can help whether or not surgery is necessary—the bones must fully heal before physical therapy begins. Treatments are usually focused on regaining mobility, improving strength, and returning to activity.

This condition occurs when the tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel is irritated or damaged. Symptoms include pain and stiffness, especially after physical activity. These injuries can result from athletic strain, but the tendon naturally weakens with age. Physical therapy can help you safely recover from this injury and train you on stretches and exercises to prevent reinjury.

Tibialis Posterior Tendinitis is a condition in which the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the inside of the foot becomes overstretched or damaged. This condition is relatively common, especially in athletes, but it is important to treat it properly as it can lead to severe flatfoot and long-term discomfort. Your physical therapist will develop a treatment plan that allows the tendon to heal and strengthens the ankle and foot, increasing stability.

This condition usually causes pain in the heel, but the root cause is actually in the band of tissue that supports the foot’s arch called the plantar fascia. When it becomes inflamed or damaged, it results in discomfort during occasions of prolonged standing, intense weight-bearing activities, climbing stairs, or walking barefoot. Physical therapy can help decrease the impact of your symptoms over time.