Functional rehabilitation of the foot

What does foot rehabilitation involve?

Foot rehabilitation is a set of specific protocols, techniques, and exercises aimed at restoring function, mobility, and strength, depending on the different medical conditions affecting the foot: deformity, injury, surgery, etc.

It is suitable for different cases:

• After a foot fracture, rehabilitation aims to promote bone healing, restore mobility and muscle strength, and prevent complications such as joint stiffness or chronic pain.

• After foot surgery (hallux valgus surgery, Achilles tendon rupture, etc.), rehabilitation aims to restore the integrity and trophicity of the operated tissues through self-massage, restore mobility to the operated joint, and rebuild muscle in the foot that was immobilized during recovery. This is done in parallel with physical therapy.

• After ligament trauma, foot rehabilitation helps strengthen the muscles of the ankle and foot and improve joint stability. This may include strengthening, stretching, proprioception, and gait rehabilitation exercises.
  In the case of posture problems, such as flat feet or functional high arches, foot rehabilitation aims to strengthen the intrinsic muscles or, conversely, to relax hypertonicity in order to avoid symptoms related to the particular posture of the foot, with the aim of improving balance and stability.

Manual foot therapy

A wrong movement, wearing the wrong shoes even occasionally, temporary or chronic pain leading to an antalgic gait… There are many causes that can lead to dysfunctions, joint “blockages” or muscle tension.

These are benign but can have an impact on the upper body (knees, pelvis, back, etc.) and be the source of pathologies, daily fatigue, or limited athletic performance.

To remedy this, gentle passive and active mobilization can be performed during the clinical examination if the podiatrist observes these dysfunctions.

Remotely, and if necessary, advice is given to prevent recurrence (stretching, exercises).

Foot rehabilitation is tailored to each individual case to achieve the best possible results, always working with sports doctors, physical therapists, and osteopaths if necessary.

K-taping

K-taping, or kinesiology taping, is a physical therapy technique that uses elastic adhesive strips to support muscles, joints, and ligaments without restricting movement. This method aims to improve blood circulation, reduce pain, and promote healing by allowing for better movement.

K-taping strips are often applied to specific areas of the body to treat sports injuries, chronic pain, or musculoskeletal disorders. They are designed to mimic the texture and elasticity of the skin, allowing for optimal comfort and freedom of movement.

The potential benefits of K-taping include:

Muscle support: Helps stabilize muscles without limiting their movement.

Pain reduction: Can decrease pain by reducing pressure on pain receptors.

Improved circulation: Promotes blood and lymphatic flow, which can speed up healing.

Injury prevention: Can be used as a preventive measure during sports activities.

K-taping is used by many athletes, physical therapists, and coaches to optimize performance and facilitate recovery.

Night splints for hallux valgus

A night splint for hallux valgus is an orthopedic device used to relieve symptoms associated with this deformity of the big toe. Hallux valgus is a condition in which the big toe tilts toward the other toes, causing a bony growth on the side of the foot.

Night splints are usually worn at night and are designed to keep the big toe in the correct position in order to reduce pain, but they cannot restore the alignment of the toes. This type of device can be made of flexible or rigid materials and is designed to be comfortable to wear while sleeping.

It is often recommended as a complement to other treatments such as orthopedic insoles.

Night splints for hallux valgus are a non-surgical treatment that helps manage symptoms, but orthopedic insoles will be more effective during the day, and sometimes surgery will be necessary.

Self-rehabilitation protocols & videos

Following your assessment and specific advice at the end of your consultation, here are some rehabilitation videos to do at home: