Did you know that each foot has 26 bones and 33 joints, which makes the foot flexible? And 20 muscles controls movement of the various parts of a foot, and about 100 ligament holds the whole structure together? Sounds like a complex machine!

The most common injury in the ankle is twisting while walking or climbing stairs. Sportsmen get ankle sprain while jumping or running fast. These injuries can occur at any age.

Common Causes are:
- Arthritis-gout
- Trauma
- Sports injuries
- Sprain and strain
- Deformities of great toe
- Flat feet
- Corns
- Planter fascitis-heel pain

Symptoms:
Pain, stiffness, swelling, around the ankle or heel area, which can cause difficulty in walking and climbing the steps.

Treatment:
RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation should be given in acute conditions.

Physiotherapy includes electro therapy - Long-wave therapy, ultrasonic, TENS, LASER therapy, medium frequency currents & paraffin wax bath.

Exercises play very important role in rehabilitation of fracture and arthritis cases. Exercises should be given for mobility and strengthening of the joints and muscles.

Manual Therapy:
Manipulation and mobilization is beneficial for pain relief.

Foot wear - Shoes should be flexible in front. Don't wear the same pair of shoes every day, "a breather from bacteria".

High heels can be fun, but should not be worn for too long. Toe box should be roomy enough.