Foot and ankle pain is far more common than most people realize. Every step we take places stress on our lower limbs, and with thousands of steps taken daily, even small issues can quickly turn into ongoing problems. Whether it’s a sharp pain in your heel when you first get out of bed, tightness along your Achilles tendon, or burning sensations from neuropathy, these issues can interfere with your ability to walk, exercise, or simply enjoy life.
At Tomsic Physical Therapy in Durango, we understand how frustrating foot and ankle pain can be. That’s why we combine proven physical therapy techniques with advanced technology like Stimpod therapy—a breakthrough, non-invasive treatment designed to reduce pain, restore nerve function, and accelerate recovery.
This blog will explore the causes of common foot and ankle conditions, why pain should never be ignored, and how natural, modern solutions can help you get back on your feet.
Why Foot and Ankle Pain Happens
Your feet and ankles are complex structures, made up of 26 bones, 30 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They work together to provide stability, absorb shock, and keep you moving. With so many moving parts, there are many opportunities for something to go wrong.
Some of the most common causes of pain include:
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the thick band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Overuse or irritation of the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel.
- Heel Pain: Often linked to plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or repetitive strain.
- Neuropathy: Nerve damage that leads to burning, tingling, or numbness in the feet.
- Poor Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or misalignment that puts uneven stress on tissues.
- Overuse and Activity: Running, hiking, or standing for long periods can overload the tissues.
- Footwear Issues: Shoes with poor support or worn-out soles that fail to protect the foot.
Ignoring these early warning signs can lead to worsening pain, altered walking patterns, and secondary problems in the knees, hips, or back.
Conditions We Commonly See at Tomsic Physical Therapy
1. Plantar Fasciitis
- Symptoms: Sharp heel pain, especially in the morning or after sitting.
- Causes: Overuse, poor footwear, or tight calf muscles.
- Impact: Makes walking and standing painful, limiting activity.
2. Achilles Tendonitis
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, or stiffness at the back of the ankle.
- Causes: Repetitive stress from running, jumping, or sudden increases in activity.
- Impact: Can progress to tendon tears if untreated.
3. Heel Pain
- Symptoms: Dull or sharp pain in the bottom or back of the heel.
- Causes: Plantar fasciitis, bursitis, or stress fractures.
- Impact: Makes even simple daily movement uncomfortable.
4. Neuropathy
- Symptoms: Burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the feet.
- Causes: Often linked to diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve compression.
- Impact: Reduces balance and increases the risk of falls.
These conditions are disruptive, but they can be treated effectively—especially when caught early.
What Is Stimpod Therapy?
The Stimpod NMS460 is an innovative medical device that provides relief from pain by targeting nerve dysfunction. Unlike traditional TENS units that simply mask pain signals, Stimpod uses pulsed radio frequency currents to reset nerve communication, stimulate regeneration, and reduce inflammation.
How It Works:
- Neuromodulation: Stimpod calms overactive pain signals traveling from the nerves to the brain.
- Nerve Regeneration: It promotes recovery in damaged or irritated nerves.
- Improved Circulation: Stimulation encourages better blood flow to tissues.
- Muscle Relaxation: Helps release tension that builds around painful areas.
The result? Reduced pain, restored function, and a faster path back to comfortable movement.
Benefits of Stimpod for Foot and Ankle Pain
1. Non-Invasive and Safe
No needles, no surgery, no medications—Stimpod is completely non-invasive, making it an ideal choice for patients who want natural relief.
2. Effective for Nerve-Related Pain
Neuropathy and nerve compression issues respond especially well to Stimpod because it directly addresses nerve dysfunction.
3. Complements Physical Therapy
At Tomsic Physical Therapy, we pair Stimpod with hands-on treatments and exercises to maximize results.
4. Works on Multiple Conditions
From plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis to neuropathy and heel pain, Stimpod has proven effective across a wide range of conditions.
5. Quick Relief with Lasting Results
Sessions are short—usually 15 to 20 minutes—and results build over time. Many patients report noticeable improvement after just a few visits.
Other Ways Physical Therapy Helps
While Stimpod is a powerful tool, we also use a range of proven methods to ensure comprehensive care:
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Exercise Programs: Targeted stretches and strengthening routines to restore balance and function.
- Footwear and Orthotics Guidance: Advice on supportive shoes or inserts to reduce strain.
- Education: Helping you understand your condition and how to prevent future issues.
By addressing both the what (the pain) and the why (the cause), we create lasting solutions instead of temporary fixes.
When Should You Seek Help?
If you’re dealing with foot or ankle discomfort that:
- Lingers for more than a few weeks
- Gets worse with activity
- Causes morning stiffness or sharp pain
- Includes numbness or burning sensations
- Limits your ability to walk, hike, or stand
…it’s time to see a professional. The earlier you address pain, the easier and quicker your recovery will be.
Success Stories with Foot and Ankle Pain Relief
At Tomsic Physical Therapy, we’ve seen countless patients regain their mobility and confidence. For example:
- A hiker with severe plantar fasciitis who returned to Colorado trails pain-free after a few weeks of combined Stimpod and therapy exercises.
- A runner sidelined by Achilles tendonitis who recovered fully without needing injections.
- A patient with diabetic neuropathy who found renewed comfort and balance after Stimpod sessions reduced nerve irritation.
These results highlight why combining technology with personalized care makes such a difference.
Why Choose Tomsic Physical Therapy?
At our Durango clinic, you’ll receive:
- Personalized treatment—one-on-one sessions with a licensed physical therapist.
- Innovative care—access to Stimpod therapy alongside proven rehab methods.
- Natural solutions—a focus on healing without medication or surgery.
- A caring environment—support every step of your recovery.
We don’t just treat pain—we help you return to the activities you love.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Foot and ankle pain doesn’t have to control your life. Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel pain, or neuropathy, effective and natural solutions are available. With modern therapies like Stimpod combined with expert physical therapy, lasting recovery is possible.
That’s why we offer a FREE Discovery Visit at Tomsic Physical Therapy. This no-obligation appointment gives you the chance to:
- Talk with a licensed physical therapist
- Get answers about what’s causing your pain
- Explore natural solutions like Stimpod therapy
- Create a plan tailored to your needs and goals
📞 Call us today at (970) 259-0574 or click below to book your Free Discovery Visit:
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