Ongoing foot/ankle problems - I need advice!

[Paininthefoot]

I have had on-going problems with my ankles / feet and could really do with some advice!

I do regular fitness (netball, running, gym, aerobics, pilates) and for about 10 years I have had problems with my ankles/feet. This originally started with a pain around my “extra ankle bone” (the bone underneath the inner ankle bone.) Mine is very tender and also quite prominent and it used to ache after I had been on my feet for any length of time. I had an operation on one of the ankles and they found a piece of floating bone which they removed. I have high arches and over prontate, as well as a previous broken ankle and foot.

My issue is I regularly go over on my left foot and I am then unable to do anything for 3-4 weeks. I do not go over heavy but it seems like my ankle is unstable. Two examples in the last year are: Ran off road and about 100 metres into my run, stood on a large twig and that was enough to turn my ankle. Another example was dancing at a wedding (in my heels!) and again for no reason going over on my ankle.

The pain is around the inside of my ankle (around the extra ankle bone) but also under the arch. It is worst in the morning and hurts if I put any pressure on it. I have recently started experiencing a burning pain along the bone that runs from my big toe to my ankle. I am currently doing light cycling but want to get back to running. Most of all I want to resolve this!

Over the years I have been to a NHS physio who gave me a couple of exercises but I didn’t see much benefit. I have also seen a podiatrist who gave me custom insoles. He said my ankles were quite strong.

I have recently visted an Ostepath as it was recommended this may be beneficial and she said I have a very tight muscle running along the inside of my calf and that by stretching it she believes it will be resolved as that is pulling my foot in the wrong direction. I have a few more session booked with her

Does anyone think this approach will work as i do not want to pay out if people do not think this will help – should I continue to see the osteopath or someone else (ie, sports therapist) Can anyone else give any advise as I am really fed up!

Here's hoping someone can offer advice!

[Heidi]

Hi
I think they could be right. It may be a tibilais posterior problem: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/ankle/tibialis-posterior-tendinopathy.htm
The other thing to consider is tarsal tunnel syndrome, although this is unlikely: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/foot/entrapmentnerves.htm

Stick with their treatment for a while, I think it could be worthwhile.

[Tim Paine]

The pain is around the inside of my ankle (around the extra ankle bone) but also under the arch. It is worst in the morning and hurts if I put any pressure on it. I have recently started experiencing a burning pain along the bone that runs from my big toe to my ankle. I am currently doing light cycling but want to get back to running. Most of all I want to resolve this!

[Nodir Rahmonov]

Extracorporeal acoustic wave therapy or in other words shockwave therapy (ESWT) maybe?

I know it isn't particularly favorite method of treatment in the UK by both private clinics, and public hospitals despite the fact that its been around for years... however I know fairly large amount of clinics in France, Italy, Germany, U.S. etc. that have been using it for the treatment of range of indications... achilles tendon injuries/pain, heel spur, pain in the hamstring insertions, painful shoulder, pain in the groin area etc.

It's always important to consult with your doctor prior to seeing a specialist who treats with ESWT.

There's a clinical evidence behind treatment with ESWT. Ask your GP. Good luck!

Nodir