More than 2.5 years ago I sprained my ankle badly. Long story short, it's still in the process of healing and I'm back in physical therapy. But now, every time I go they tell me something else is wrong.
When I first saw my new doctor, a sports medical orthopedic, he told me the tendons and joints in my ankle were loose and I had plantar fasciitis, pain and inflammation in my plantar fascia--thick tissue that runs from your heel to toes. He said I should be all better after about four weeks of physical therapy. Understandably, I was already pessimistic.
Anyway, now two weeks into physical therapy, I have the above conditions plus, a loose ligament, pain near my Achilles tendon, and Tendonitis on the medial portion of my calf that is due to not only my loose ankle, but the arch of my foot being too flat. I'm now told to purchase an arch support from the drug store.
My progress also seems to be moving backward, with more pain more often, but I keep hearing I must go back to move forward.
With two weeks left of PT I am still pessimistic, but maybe when I return to the orthopedic he will tell me some good news.
I will let you know what happens.
All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.
Add a Comment6 Comments
Michelle and Kellie-
Thank you both for your support and your advice, but I am going to stay with the physical therapist I have. I think one of the reasons I am finding out about all my miscellaneous problems is because my PT person knows what she is doing. Unlike in the past when I went to PT and hardly saw any progress.
I am confide because she was able to identify problems that would not be seen on an X-ray that she does know what she is doing.
But, thank you for your good advice. I do appreciate it!
April 21, 2009 - 5:54pmThis Comment
Hi Shannon, that's great ... trust your instincts! Good luck with the therapy, I hope you start seeing results soon. Kellie
April 21, 2009 - 10:18pmThis Comment
Hi Shannon,
April 21, 2009 - 2:28pmVery sorry to hear you are in pain. It adds to the stress and makes it hard to think clearly, I know!
I agree with Michelle. If you don't feel you are getting the best of care with your physical therapist, then try another. Go with your instinct. If you do try another therapist, be honest with them and tell them why you have tried them instead. Give them as much history on your ankle so you are not 'starting from scratch' with the therapy. Also, it will take time to heal. Unfortunatley, its tricky to rest an ankle as much as you should. :)
Good luck! Kellie
This Comment
Hi Shannon,
I am so sorry you've had such a hard time with your ankle. You should be able to see some measurable results during your Physical Therapy...maybe later on in your therapy. But, you should start to see some measurable differences.
It sounds to me like they are almost causing you more harm then good. If you are not getting better..which appears to be the case...I say, call your doctor, go in to see him and get a new physical therapist. I have some great physical therapists I could recommend. You should always ask others for recommendations vs. just taking your doctors recommendation. It's not unlike finding the right doctor for you. Advocate for yourself. There's something wrong when you are feeling more and more pessimistic and discouraged when you're doing what the doctor has recommended.
Shannon, go with your gut on this one. What's your gut telling you. Stay or go?? Do you really think they're helping you or causing you more harm?? Find someone else you trust!! I want to see you back in your high heels although, you certainly look fab in your flats:)
Thanks for coming to share your story on EmpowHer as well as your frustrations. I know I've had physical therapist that were wonderful and others that were awful. You need to find the one that works for you!!!
Best in health,
April 20, 2009 - 3:09pmMichelle
This Comment
Thanks Tina!
Your words of experience are comforting. I know one day I'll be able to wear high-heels and run again. Until then, recommended exercises and flats are my life.
Thank you!
April 17, 2009 - 4:50pmThis Comment
Shannon, Foot injuries can be so frustrating and I know first hand. When I first broke my foot more than three years ago, I never thought the pain would go away. I couldn't believe my foot could be sensitive to the point that a bed sheet could cause discomfort.
Fortunately, after about three months of physical therapy twice a week, I was able to make a lot of progress. I also practiced the exercises they recommended and although the sensitivity and outright pain lasted about a year, today I hardly know I broke it and have even done a few runs. Hang in there. It does get better. Take it from someone who knows.
April 17, 2009 - 4:44pmThis Comment