Foot and Ankle Health, Movement Quality, and Injury Prevention

Guest Contributor: Dr. Sandra Haider, DPM, Board Certified Podiatrist, Pristine Foot and Ankle

Healthy feet and ankles play a critical role in how we move, exercise, and function day to day. When foot mechanics are compromised by pain, instability, or structural issues, the effects often extend beyond the foot itself, contributing to knee, hip, or even lower back pain. As a podiatrist, I frequently work alongside physical therapists to address these issues comprehensively and help patients return to comfortable, efficient movement.

At Pristine Foot and Ankle, we focus on identifying the root cause of foot and ankle conditions and providing individualized treatment plans that pair well with physical therapy.

You can learn more about our approach at: https://pristinefoot.com/

How Foot Mechanics Influence the Entire Body

The foot is a complex structure made up of dozens of bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments designed to absorb force and adapt to different surfaces. When alignment or mobility is impaired, abnormal stress patterns can develop throughout the lower extremity. This is why unresolved foot issues often contribute to recurrent injuries or persistent pain despite strengthening and stretching efforts alone.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in restoring strength and movement quality, while podiatric evaluation helps identify structural or medical contributors that may need targeted intervention.

Common Foot and Ankle Conditions That Affect Movement

Some of the most common conditions I see that interfere with daily activity and athletic performance include:

Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain

Heel pain that is often worse with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Early treatment improves outcomes and reduces the likelihood of chronic symptoms.

Achilles Tendon Pain

Overuse or overload of the Achilles tendon can limit walking, running, and jumping activities. Addressing both tendon health and contributing foot mechanics is essential for recovery.

Flat Feet and Arch Dysfunction

Insufficient arch support can alter gait mechanics and place additional strain on the ankles, knees, and hips. This is particularly relevant for active individuals and those who spend long hours on their feet.

More information on how these conditions are evaluated and treated can be found at: https://pristinefoot.com/services/

Custom Orthotics and Their Role in Injury Prevention

Custom orthotics are one of the most effective tools for improving foot alignment and reducing abnormal stress throughout the lower extremity. Unlike over the counter inserts, custom orthotics are designed based on a detailed assessment of foot structure, gait mechanics, and activity demands.

At Pristine Foot and Ankle, custom orthotics are commonly prescribed for patients with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, Achilles issues, and recurrent overuse injuries. When used in conjunction with physical therapy, orthotics can improve force distribution, enhance movement efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of recurring pain.

Patients interested in learning more about custom orthotics and podiatric treatment options can visit: https://pristinefoot.com/services/#customorthotics

When to Combine Podiatry and Physical Therapy

Many patients achieve the best outcomes when podiatry and physical therapy are combined. This integrated approach is especially beneficial when:

• Pain persists despite rest or activity modification

• There is a history of recurrent lower extremity injuries

• Recovery is needed after foot or ankle surgery

• Gait retraining is part of an injury prevention plan

  
  

Physical therapy addresses strength, mobility, and movement patterns, while podiatry focuses on diagnosis, structural support, and medical management. Together, this collaboration supports long term function and performance.

Practical Tips for Supporting Foot and Ankle Health

To reduce injury risk and support healthy movement, consider the following:

• Wear footwear appropriate for your activity and foot type

• Increase training volume gradually to avoid overload

• Stretch the calves and plantar fascia consistently

• Seek professional evaluation early if pain does not improve

  
  

Final Thoughts

Foot and ankle health is foundational to how the entire body moves. Addressing problems early and using a collaborative care model can prevent minor issues from becoming long term limitations. If foot or ankle pain is affecting your daily life or activity goals, a podiatric evaluation may help identify solutions that work alongside physical therapy.

To learn more or schedule an evaluation, visit Pristine Foot and Ankle at:

https://pristinefoot.com/

or

To learn more about how physical therapy can help, or to schedule and evaluation, visit: https://www.kinetikpar.com/contact