ANKLE AND
FOOT PAIN
The ankle and foot carry the weight of the whole body with every step. With Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor, we help with pain after a sprain, in the heel and around the Achilles tendon through manual therapy and guidance on loading.
The foot has 26 bones and a multitude of ligaments and tendons, which together with the ankle absorb shock and control balance. Problems in this area often travel upwards - to the knee, hip and spine - so it makes sense to assess the whole movement pattern.
Why ankle and foot pain occurs
The most common causes are injuries and overload:
- 🔹 Ankle sprain and insufficient rehabilitation after it
- 🔹 Overload of the plantar fascia (heel pain)
- 🔹 Overload of the Achilles tendon when running or jumping
- 🔹 Flat feet, a high arch or a faulty movement pattern when walking
- 🔹 Unsuitable footwear or prolonged standing on a hard surface
- 🔹 Reduced ankle mobility after an injury or prolonged immobilisation
How ankle and foot problems present
The following often appear:
- 🔹 Heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning
- 🔹 Pain on the outer side of the ankle after a sprain
- 🔹 Pain or stiffness in the Achilles tendon
- 🔹 Swelling of the ankle after activity
- 🔹 A feeling of instability or frequent rolling of the ankle
- 🔹 Pain in the front part of the foot when walking
How we treat ankle and foot pain
The aim is to improve ankle mobility, offload the affected tissues and restore the stability that prevents repeated injuries.
1. Assessment of condition
Examination of the ankle, foot, knee and posture, and analysis of the walking pattern.
2. Manual therapy
Improved mobility of the joints of the foot and release of tight calf muscles.
3. Stability and exercises
Balance exercises and strengthening of the foot muscles, plus guidance on footwear.
Ankle and foot pain we help with
People most often come to us with these problems:
- 🔹 Ankle pain after a sprain
- 🔹 Swelling and stiffness of the ankle
- 🔹 Pain in the heel or the arch of the foot
- 🔹 Pain in the Achilles tendon
- 🔹 Problems when walking and running
- 🔹 An unstable ankle that easily gives way
Signs that require immediate attention
Seek medical help immediately if you cannot put weight on the foot after an injury, if the ankle is visibly deformed, badly swollen or blue, or if you suddenly feel a "snap" in the Achilles tendon and cannot stand on your toes. These may be signs of a fracture or a torn tendon.
With repeated sprains or long-lasting heel pain, it makes sense to look for the cause, not just ease the symptoms.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Common patterns of ankle pain
Sudden ankle pain
Sudden pain after a twist, fall or blow requires a medical examination first to rule out a fracture or a more serious injury. After a medical assessment, manual treatment can support recovery.
Ankle pain when walking
Pain when walking is often linked to tendon tension, a stiff joint or strain after an injury. During the examination we check the mobility of the ankle and foot, as well as the knee and hip.
Tendon inflammation in the ankle
Irritated tendons often show up as pain during movement and in the morning. Adjusting the load and gentle treatment may help; if there is swelling, redness or warmth, see a doctor.
Pain under the ankle, on the outer side of the foot and in the heel
Pain in these places can be caused by tendon strain, poor foot posture or tight calf muscles. We look for the cause by examining the whole lower limb.
Frequently asked questions about ankle and foot pain
Why does my ankle hurt without an injury?
Pain without an injury is often the result of tendon overload, a stiff joint or tight calf muscles.
What should I do about tendon inflammation in the ankle?
Temporarily adjust the load.
Does manual therapy help with ankle pain when walking?
It can help with muscle tension and joint mobility. After the examination we assess whether the cause is in the ankle or elsewhere in the leg.
Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?
With overload of the plantar fascia, the tissue is shortened after resting overnight, so the first steps hurt. With movement the pain usually decreases.
Does an ankle sprain need treatment if it no longer hurts?
It is advisable to check stability and balance, as incomplete recovery increases the risk of another sprain.
Do orthopaedic insoles help?
In some conditions, for example flat feet, they can help. We judge whether they make sense after the examination.
Can I run with Achilles tendon pain?
We recommend temporarily reducing the load until the condition is assessed, as continuing may worsen the problem.
Do foot problems affect the back?
They can. Altered stride mechanics travel to the knee, hip and lumbar spine, so we recommend a whole-body assessment.
How many treatments do I need?
It depends on the cause and how long the problem has lasted; milder overloads often improve within a few visits.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.