Foot Pain
Physiotherapy for Foot Pain in Burlington
Say goodbye to sore, painful feet — and get back to walking comfortably. At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our physiotherapists specialize in identifying the root cause of foot pain and providing effective, evidence-based treatments. Whether your pain is due to plantar fasciitis, flatfoot, a sports injury, or overuse, we’ll design a personalized program to restore mobility, reduce pain, and help you return to work, play, and daily life.
What Causes Foot Pain?
Foot pain can result from sudden injuries or chronic conditions that develop over time. Common causes include:
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Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the strong tissue band supporting the arch, often causing stabbing heel pain with first steps in the morning.
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Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity (Flatfoot): Arch collapse due to tendon weakness, often leading to ankle pain and foot instability.
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Lisfranc (Midfoot) Injuries: Damage to midfoot bones or ligaments, often misdiagnosed as a sprain, but requiring serious rehabilitation.
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Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in bones from repetitive overuse, common in runners and athletes.
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Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome or neuropathy: Nerve Entrapment as they course through different parts of the foot
Symptoms of Foot Pain
Foot pain can present in many ways depending on the underlying cause, severity, and activity level of the individual. Common symptoms include:
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Localized Pain: Sharp, stabbing, dull, or aching pain in the heel, arch, ball of the foot, toes, or midfoot.
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Morning Pain: Sharp heel pain or stiffness with the first steps after waking up (common in plantar fasciitis).
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Pain with Activity: Discomfort that worsens during walking, running, standing for long periods, or sports.
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Pain after Activity: Soreness or throbbing after exercise or prolonged standing.
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Swelling: Puffy, tender, or inflamed areas of the foot, ankle, or arch.
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Bruising or Redness: Visible skin changes, often after trauma or injury.
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Stiffness and Limited Movement: Difficulty bending the toes, moving the ankle, or pushing off during walking.
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Numbness or Tingling: Sensations that may indicate nerve involvement (common in tarsal tunnel syndrome or neuropathy).
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Weakness or Instability: Feeling that the foot “gives way” or cannot support body weight.
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Altered Gait: Limping or changes in walking patterns due to pain or compensation.
When To Seek Help
While occasional soreness may not be serious, you should seek physiotherapy if:
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Foot pain persists for more than a few days despite rest or self-care.
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You experience sharp heel pain, especially first thing in the morning (possible plantar fasciitis).
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Pain worsens with walking, running, or standing for long periods.
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You notice swelling, bruising, or redness in your foot or ankle.
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Pain interferes with your work, sports, or daily activities.
Seek urgent medical attention if:
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You cannot bear weight on the foot.
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You suspect a fracture or Lisfranc injury (severe swelling, bruising on top and bottom of the foot, inability to push off).
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There is sudden deformity, open wound, or signs of infection (redness, warmth, fever).
At Cogent Rehab Burlington, our physiotherapists specialize in treating foot pain with evidence-based care, including manual therapy, exercise programs, orthotics, and rehabilitation strategies for long-term relief.
Why Choose Cogent Rehab Burlington?
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Experienced physiotherapists specializing in foot and ankle pain
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Proven results for plantar fasciitis, flatfoot, Lisfranc injuries, and stress fractures
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Personalized treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle, activity level, and goals
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Integrated care with Orthopaedic Physiotherapy, Sports Physiotherapy, and Running Assessment
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Our physiotherapists use a multi-modal approach to relieve pain and restore function. Your treatment plan may include:
✅ Manual therapy (joint and soft tissue mobilization) to restore foot and ankle mobility
✅ Therapeutic exercise to strengthen foot and ankle muscles, improve calf flexibility, and build endurance
✅ Custom orthotics, night splints, or taping techniques to support arches and reduce strain
✅ Stretching and mobility training for calf, ankle, and plantar fascia
✅ Education and lifestyle strategies for safe activity modification and long-term prevention
✅ Electrotherapy and modalities to support healing and reduce pain/swelling
FAQs About Foot Pain
Q1. How do I know if I have plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis typically causes sharp heel pain, especially with your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
Q2. Can physiotherapy help flatfoot (collapsed arch)?
Yes. Physiotherapy can strengthen supportive muscles, reduce pain, and recommend orthotics or braces to improve arch stability.
Q3. How long does it take for a stress fracture to heal?
Most stress fractures heal in 6–8 weeks, but recovery depends on location and severity. Physiotherapy helps with safe return to activity.
Q4. Do I need surgery for Lisfranc injuries?
Mild Lisfranc injuries can be treated conservatively with physiotherapy, while severe injuries may require surgery followed by rehab.
Q5. When should I see a physiotherapist for foot pain?
If pain lasts longer than a few days, interferes with walking, or worsens with weight-bearing, book an assessment. Early treatment prevents chronic issues.