MSK Podiatry stands for Musculoskeletal Podiatry.
MSK is a specialist area of Podiatry which concentrates on functional and structural issues of the foot and ankle.
How is this assessed?
The Podiatrist will use the most appropriate assessment techniques to diagnose the presenting complaint.
The assessment may include all or some of the following tests such as weight bearing tests, gait analysis (examination of walking), shoe wear assessment, examination of the joints of the foot and/or ankle, assessment of the ligaments, analysis of balance and muscle/tendon strength.
After the assessment
The diagnosis from the assessment will determine what is required next. The Podiatrist may suggest insoles or supports, rehabilitation, steroid injection, or onward referral when necessary.
- Common conditions
- Achilles Tendinopathy (pain at the back of the leg/heel)
- Plantarfasciitis (heel pad pain)
- Mortons Neuroma (intermittent burning/sharp pain at the forefoot and/or toes)
- Metatarsalgia (pain at the ball of the foot)
- Tibialis Posterior Dysfunction (fallen arch, adult acquired flat foot)
- Hallux Limitis/Rigidus (stiff or painful big toe joint)
- Plantarplate injury (toe and/or webbing area discomfort)
- Peroneal tendinitis (pain or weakness at the outside of the ankle/foot)
- Hallux Valgus (Bunion)
- Heel fat atrophy (general heel pain)
- Hypermobility (flexible joints)
Insoles
Insoles may be prescribed by the Podiatrist if necessary. There are a variety of different insoles from off-the-shelf style insoles to individually customised prescription insoles dependant on the patient and their current issue.
Shoe wear
Shoe wear may be assessed and sometimes will need to be changed to improve symptoms.