Individualized pre- and post-operative physical therapies designed to support foot and ankle injury rehabilitation
Regain strength, motion, and stability
Regain strength, increase range of motion
Sheltering Arms Institute offers comprehensive physical therapy services in the outpatient setting to help individuals rehabilitate ankle and foot injuries and conditions.
Located throughout Richmond and Central Virginia, Sheltering Arms Institute outpatient clinics are accessible and convenient.
My experience with Sheltering Arms Institute was amazing! My physical therapist worked with me for one year to regain the use of my foot for sports and everyday use following two surgeries on the same foot. With my therapist’s encouragement, I became stronger physically and mentally.
Supporting optimal rehabilitation
Sheltering Arms Institute offers foot and ankle rehabilitation therapies in the inpatient care setting to individuals managing or recovering from multiple medical conditions in addition to their condition related to the foot or ankle.
At Sheltering Arms Institute, we specialize in both pediatric and adult orthopedics of the foot and ankle. Incorporating manual therapy, corrective exercise prescription, and orthotic fittings, we create a customized plan of care for each person to help them recover and return to an active lifestyle.
Understanding foot and ankle therapy
Not necessarily. Oftentimes, foot and ankle pain can be solved or drastically improved by physical therapy; however, sometimes surgery is necessary. During your evaluation, your therapist will determine if you are a good candidate for physical therapy or if further diagnostic testing is needed.
The length of outpatient therapy depends on the length of time the individual has been experiencing the condition. If the individual has experienced the condition for a long time, it will likely take more time to resolve. Certain conditions such as diabetes, thyroid/hormonal issues, and cardiovascular issues impair the blood supply to and from tissues, thus increasing healing time.
Most of the time, addressing the underlying issue(s) such as weakness, tightness, or decreased range of motion can immensely help reduce symptoms and pain; however, depending on what is causing the foot/ankle pain, physical therapy can help alleviate and control the symptoms, but may not be able to completely resolve the underlying issue(s) such as arthritis or cartilage wear.
Typically, someone experiencing foot/ankle pain will benefit from outpatient therapy services. Patients with complex foot and ankle pain/conditions may be eligible for inpatient rehab if they have more than one disease or condition present at the same time that requires 24/7 care and physician oversight.
Not all foot pain is plantar fasciitis. There are several conditions that mimic plantar fasciitis, but are not. True plantar fasciitis is an overstretch injury of the plantar fascia. Internet searches may show you how to stretch the plantar fascia as treatment, however, that can actually make things worse. Oftentimes, the solution is adequate arch support in your shoes or a simple, inexpensive orthotic that you can purchase over the counter. Simple solutions typically work best, however, healing can be complicated by diabetes, thyroid/hormonal issues, and cardiovascular issues.
Start your Journey
Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.
