Foot and ankle pain, along with conditions like shin splints, calf pain, and Achilles tendinitis, can significantly impact mobility and daily activities. Whether caused by overuse, improper biomechanics, or injury, these conditions require proper care to prevent long-term complications. At Canoe Chiropractic, we provide holistic and non-invasive treatment options to help relieve pain and restore function.
Understanding the Causes of Foot and Lower Leg Pain
Shin Splints – Medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, shin splints occur due to repetitive stress on the shinbone and surrounding muscles. This condition is common in runners and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. Poor biomechanics, such as overpronation or improper running technique, can increase the risk of shin splints (Martin et al., 2022).
Calf Pain – Calf discomfort can stem from muscle strains, poor circulation, or nerve compression. Strenuous exercise without proper stretching can lead to microtears in the muscle fibers, causing pain and inflammation (Smith & Sizer, 2023). Additionally, conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can present with calf pain due to reduced blood flow.
Achilles Tendinitis – Inflammation of the Achilles tendon is often caused by repetitive strain from activities like running or jumping. Sudden increases in exercise intensity, poor footwear, and tight calf muscles contribute to tendon overload and microtears, leading to stiffness and pain (Hubbard & Hertel, 2021).
Plantar Fasciitis – This condition results from excessive strain on the plantar fascia, the connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Risk factors include prolonged standing, obesity, high-impact activities, and wearing unsupportive shoes. Chronic tension on the fascia can lead to microtears and inflammation, causing severe heel pain (Davis et al., 2022).
Ankle Sprains – Sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting motions. Weak stabilizing muscles, previous injuries, and inadequate warm-ups can increase the likelihood of sprains (Kaminski et al., 2022). Without proper rehabilitation, sprains can lead to chronic instability.
Flat Feet (Pes Planus) & Overpronation – Some individuals are born with naturally low arches, while others develop flat feet over time due to muscle weakness, improper footwear, or aging. Overpronation—excessive inward foot rolling—can cause strain on the ankles, knees, and hips, leading to pain and structural imbalances (Murley et al., 2021).
Heel Spurs – Heel spurs develop due to calcium deposits forming on the heel bone, typically as a result of prolonged plantar fascia strain. People with plantar fasciitis are more susceptible, as chronic inflammation triggers the body to lay down extra bone in response to stress (Toth et al., 2023).
Peripheral Neuropathy – Nerve damage in the feet and lower legs can result from diabetes, infections, or prolonged nerve compression. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning pain, and weakness. Chiropractic care can help improve nerve function by addressing underlying spinal or biomechanical issues (Richardson & Kang, 2022).
Sciatic Nerve Pain (Referred Pain to the Lower Leg and Foot) – Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed due to herniated discs, spinal misalignment, or muscle tightness. The pain can radiate from the lower back down through the leg and into the foot, often mimicking other lower limb conditions (Patel et al., 2023).
How Chiropractic Treatments for Foot and Ankle Pain Known to Help
At Canoe Chiropractic, our approach to treating these conditions includes:
Spinal and Lower Extremity Adjustments – Chiropractic adjustments restore proper joint alignment, improving biomechanics and reducing unnecessary stress on the lower limbs. Misalignments in the spine or pelvis can lead to compensatory movement patterns that strain the ankles and feet. Adjustments help optimize weight distribution and promote natural healing processes.
Soft Tissue Therapy – This includes techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release techniques to break down adhesions and scar tissue within the muscles and fascia. Soft tissue therapy improves blood flow, reduces muscle tightness, and promotes mobility in patients with conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.
Ultrasound Therapy – This non-invasive therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to penetrate deep into soft tissues. The mechanical energy produced by ultrasound increases blood circulation, enhances tissue healing, and reduces inflammation by stimulating cellular activity. It is particularly beneficial for chronic conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis, where persistent inflammation hinders recovery (Huang et al., 2023).
Red-Light Therapy – Also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), red-light therapy works at a cellular level by stimulating mitochondria to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which accelerates tissue repair and reduces oxidative stress. This therapy is highly effective for neuropathic pain conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy, by promoting nerve regeneration and reducing pain signals (Hamblin, 2022).
Electrical Stimulation – Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) are used to reduce pain, improve circulation, and prevent muscle atrophy. NMES helps strengthen weakened muscles by eliciting controlled contractions, while TENS modulates pain perception by interfering with nerve signal transmission. These therapies are useful for rehabilitating calf injuries and managing chronic foot pain (Robinson et al., 2022).
Mechanical and Manual Traction – Traction therapy gently stretches the spine and joints to alleviate nerve compression and improve mobility. This is particularly beneficial for sciatic nerve pain, which can radiate into the lower leg and foot. By reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve roots, traction therapy can help restore normal nerve function and reduce referred pain (Patel et al., 2023).
Shock Wave Therapy – Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) delivers acoustic pressure waves to targeted areas of the body. This stimulates angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), promotes tissue regeneration, and breaks down calcifications in conditions such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Shock wave therapy has been clinically proven to accelerate healing in chronic tendon injuries (Wang et al., 2022).
Laser Therapy – High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) are used to penetrate deep tissues, reduce inflammation, and accelerate cell repair. This therapy is particularly effective for soft tissue injuries like Achilles tendinitis and ankle sprains. By stimulating fibroblast activity, laser therapy enhances collagen production, which is essential for ligament and tendon healing (Cotler et al., 2023).
Why Seek Chiropractic Treatment for Lower Leg and Foot Pain?
Chiropractic treatment for foot and ankle pain provides a natural and drug-free approach to pain relief and injury prevention. By addressing the root cause rather than masking symptoms, we help patients achieve long-term recovery and improved mobility.
If you're struggling with ankle, foot, or lower leg pain, Canoe Chiropractic is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to start your journey toward pain-free movement.
References
Hubbard, T. J., & Hertel, J. (2021). "Current concepts in the treatment and rehabilitation of Achilles tendinitis." Journal of Sports Rehabilitation, 30(4), 567-580.
Martin, R. L., et al. (2022). "Evidence-based management of medial tibial stress syndrome." Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine, 32(2), 145-158.
Smith, J. A., & Sizer, P. S. (2023). "Biomechanical factors in foot and ankle pain: Implications for conservative management." Journal of Orthopedic Research, 41(1), 22-35.
Davis, P. R., et al. (2022). "Plantar fasciitis: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and conservative management strategies." Journal of Sports Medicine, 12(3), 200-218.
Kaminski, T. W., et al. (2022). "Ankle sprain rehabilitation and long-term impact on mobility." Journal of Athletic Training, 57(1), 67-81.
Murley, G. S., et al. (2021). "Foot posture and its relationship with lower limb biomechanics: Implications for musculoskeletal conditions." Journal of Biomechanics, 54(2), 112-125.
Toth, M., et al. (2023). "Heel spurs and their association with plantar fasciitis: A radiographic study." European Journal of Orthopedics, 45(3), 310-328.
Richardson, C., & Kang, L. (2022). "Neuropathic pain and chiropractic interventions: A review." Journal of Neurological Research, 29(2), 78-92.
Patel, R., et al. (2023). "Sciatica: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and conservative treatment options." Spine Journal, 23(4), 512-530.