Rehabilitation of ankle and foot injuries in athletes

Abstract

Foot and ankle injuries are extremely common among athletes and other physically active individuals. Rehabilitation programs that emphasize the use of therapeutic exercise to restore joint range of motion, muscle strength, neuromuscular coordination, and gait mechanics have been shown to have clinical success for patients suffering various foot and ankle pathologies. Rehabilitation programs are discussed for ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and turf toe.

Figure 1

Balance training exercises include single limb standing. These exercises can be progressed by changing arm position, closing the eyes, and adding an unstable surface under the foot.

Figure 2

Strength training may be performed with resistance tubing exercises.

Figure 3

Short foot exercises are performed by contracting the plantar intrinsic muscles in an effort to pull the metatarsal heads towards the calcaneus. Emphasis should be placed on minimizing extrinsic muscle activity.