kevano

Yeah, I cracked it at the top of the calcaneus at the joint. When it hurts the most it really stiffens up. So moving it around for the cartilage makes a lot of sense. I've always done the figure 8's, but never really forced it. Thanks for the idea.

lonerider

I would recommend trying EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy). I know that name sounds ridiculous (I think they made that up just so the acronym became EPAT), but it really works. I've tried most physical therapy treatments (electric simulation, ultrasound, cold laser, etc) and most of those didn't do much for me and I discard them without a second thought, but this one works well for me. It send shockwave pulses through your tissue, break tough/fibrous scar and connective tissue. I found really helps break up the tough stuff on the soles of your feet and around your ankle joint which prevent it from hinge-ing correctly. Check local podiatrists in your area as some of them might have gotten this machine.

I won't lie... it can sting a bit (like when a dentist zings a nerve in your tooth)... but the results are pretty noticeable, especially for people with flat feet and plantar faciitis.

This is what is looks like

Toecutter

Shockwave therapy is for plantar fasciitis and other tendinopathies, but unfortunately subtalar joint arthritis is a different animal.

Just curious, did your health insurance cover your treatments?

lonerider

You have a good point on that about arthritis... but I figure that one probably aggravates the other. If you ankle joint isn't smoothly and inline because there thick tissue around your tendons... then I figure that's only going to be make your arthritis worse.

Good point about the health insurance, too. Anthem covers me, but I think my sports therapists uses a particular code for it to get covered... so anyone researching this should definitely check to make sure before getting it.

MccBeth

You should most definitely consult a doctor about what could be best... But for the time being, if you don't already... do calf raises like crazy, stretch you foot/heel before getting out of bed... I like to roll my foot over a ball after long days when it's starting to get iffy. Hurts like a bitch, but helps relieve pain afterwards. Point and flex your toes, towel stretch, achilles stretch... stretch the shit out of that area, it'll help. But definitely still see a doctor if it's that bad.

kevano

Thanks for all the help! I've been stretching the foot daily, not just when I go to the gym. I think that helped when I went to Loon this weekend. I felt pretty good after.

If it gets any worse I'll talk to my doctor. I was really just curious if anyone boards with this type of injury and how they've dealt with it. Using a ball as a stretch/massage is a great idea too. Thanks again.