Ankle & Foot
Ankle and foot conditions can burden Veterans, often tied to the relentless physical and emotional demands of military service—whether from sustained operational duties or intense physical tasks. These issues can disrupt balance, cause persistent pain, and restrict your ability to move freely post-service. At Echelon Wellness, we provide specialized, Veteran-focused care to help you rebuild ankle and foot strength and comfort.
Symptoms of Ankle and Foot Issues
Look for these symptoms of ankle and foot problems linked to military service:
- Pain or soreness in the heel, arch, or toes, often after prolonged standing or activity.
- Swelling or stiffness that limits ankle or foot motion, a residue of service-related stress.
- Tingling or burning sensations in the foot, rooted in years of physical strain.
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking, reflecting past military demands.
- Persistent discomfort that flares up, worsened by the pressures of service life.
Common Ankle & Foot Conditions We Treat
According to VAC, the most common ankle and foot conditions include:
Pes Planus
Flat feet, leading to arch pain, fatigue, or instability, often aggravated by prolonged weight-bearing.
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing sharp heel pain, especially with initial steps or extended activity.
Achilles Tendonitis
Irritation or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, resulting in pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle.
Metatarsalgia
Pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often linked to pressure or overuse.
Morton’s Neuroma
Thickening of nerve tissue between the toes, causing burning, tingling, or numbness in the forefoot.
Bunions
Bony protrusions at the base of the big toe, leading to pain, swelling, and deformity.
How Ankle and Foot Issues Develop
Ankle and foot conditions can arise from diverse biomechanical and physiological triggers:
Postural Strain: Extended periods in suboptimal positions can stress the ankle and foot structures.
Overuse: Repetitive pressure or motion can strain tendons, ligaments, and joints.
Trauma: Sudden impacts or twists may damage bones, tissues, or nerves.
Degenerative Changes: Progressive wear of tissues or joints over time increases the likelihood of chronic issues.
These factors can contribute to ankle and foot conditions, requiring precise care for recovery.
For Veterans, ankle and foot conditions often stem from military service experiences:
Prolonged Activity: Extended periods of standing or performing demanding tasks can overload the feet and ankles, fostering pes planus or plantar fasciitis.
Equipment Strain: Carrying heavy gear or working in restrictive footwear stresses the Achilles tendon and forefoot, contributing to tendonitis or metatarsalgia
Stress-Induced Tension: The high-pressure nature of military duties tightens lower limb muscles, exacerbating conditions like bunions or neuromas.
These service-related factors underscore the need for Veteran-specific treatment.
Treatment Options for Ankle and Foot Issues
According to VAC, if you have an Ankle or Foot condition, you are entitled to the following services:
