Foot & Ankle Pain

Physical Therapy for Foot and Ankle Pain in Council Bluffs

Whether your foot or ankle pain comes from a recent injury or a long-term condition, our physical therapists will perform a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause. From there, they will design a personalized treatment plan just for you.

Treatment usually combines hands-on manual therapy with targeted exercises and stretches aimed at restoring joint mobility, improving balance, and strengthening muscles in the foot and ankle.

Your plan may also include balance board exercises and other specialized therapies. We focus on easing your pain quickly while improving circulation and overall function. Additionally, we’ll assess your lifestyle and may recommend orthotic footwear or changes to help prevent future issues.

Common Causes of Foot and Ankle Pain

Foot and ankle pain can appear suddenly from an injury or develop gradually due to chronic conditions. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the most common causes include:

• Fallen Arches: When tendons fail to support the foot’s arch properly, resulting in flat feet that can cause discomfort over time.
• Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which often affect foot and ankle joints.
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression and inflammation of the nerve running from the ankle to the foot.
• Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot, often caused by overuse, poor posture, or inadequate footwear support.
• Bursitis: Irritation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) where tendons rub over bones.
• Tendinitis: Long-term inflammation of tendons from overuse.
• Fractures: Cracks or breaks in bones from trauma or excessive force, requiring time for proper healing.
• Strains and Sprains: Strains are overstretched or torn muscles/tendons; sprains involve ligaments that are stretched or torn.

How Can Physical Therapy Treat My Foot and Ankle Pain in Council Bluffs?

Our physical therapists start with a detailed examination to pinpoint the cause of your pain and create a customized treatment plan.

For acute injuries, initial care often involves RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) to reduce swelling in the first few days. Then, therapy progresses to specialized treatments.

If you have a chronic condition, therapy begins right away with tailored interventions focused on your needs as part of a holistic healing and pain management program. The goal is to restore your physical performance and prevent future problems.

Your treatment will typically include exercises and stretches to improve joint mobility, balance, and strength in your foot and ankle. Additional treatments might include balance board exercises, manual therapy, ultrasound, ice and heat therapy, or cold laser therapy. We will work to reduce your pain and enhance circulation. Lifestyle adjustments or orthotic footwear recommendations may also be part of your plan to avoid recurring issues.

Don’t let foot or ankle pain hold you back. Our expert physical therapists are dedicated to helping you regain control of your mobility, comfort, and function—so you can move freely without pain. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and get back on your feet!