At Poized Podiatry, we see a wide range of patients across the Wirral and beyond who are dealing with pain, discomfort, or mobility issues stemming from the musculoskeletal (MSK) system. The feet, ankles, and lower limbs are complex structures of bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues, and when something isn’t functioning properly, it can impact the way you move and your quality of life.
Whether you’re an active runner, a busy parent, someone on your feet all day, or simply noticing changes in your mobility, understanding MSK conditions can be the first step toward long-term relief.
If you’re looking for expert care from a trusted podiatry clinic in Wirral, here’s what you need to know about the most common MSK issues we see and how we treat them.
Plantar Fasciitis
One of the most common issues we treat is plantar fasciitis. This condition causes pain in the foot arch or heel, particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing. This is Inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
Common symptoms:
- Heel pain (especially first thing in the morning)
- Aching/tender arches
- Discomfort when standing after long periods of rest
How we treat it:
- Biomechanical assessment to identify contributing factors
- Custom orthotics to support the arch and reduce strain
- A tailored stretching and strengthening program
Achilles Tendinopathy
Overuse or degeneration of the Achilles tendon, the strong band at the back of the ankle, often due to repetitive stress or poor foot mechanics.
Common symptoms:
- Pain or stiffness at the back of the heel
- Swelling or tenderness of the tendon
- Discomfort during activity, especially running or walking uphill
How we treat it:
- Activity modification and load management
- Gait analysis to assess movement patterns
- Heel lifts or orthoses to offload the tendon
- Orthotics to correct biomechanical overload
- Education on long-term injury prevention
Tibialis Posterior Dysfunction Flat Foot Syndrome
A progressive condition that affects the tibialis posterior muscle and tendon, leading to a collapse of the arch.
Common symptoms:
- Pain along the inside of the ankle or foot
- Flattening of the arch
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
How we treat it:
- Supportive orthotic devices
- Strengthening of foot and ankle muscles
- Activity modification and footwear advice
- Referral for imaging if advanced
Metatarsalgia
Pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often due to improper pressure distribution.
Common symptoms:
- Sharp, aching, or burning pain in the forefoot
- Worse when standing, walking, or wearing tight shoes
How we treat it:
- Pressure analysis using advanced podiatry tools
- Footwear recommendations
- Custom forefoot padding or orthotics
- Manual therapy to improve joint mobility
Ankle instability or recurrent sprains
A history of ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability, weakness, and recurring injuries.
Common symptoms:
- Frequent “rolling” of the ankle
- Persistent swelling or discomfort
- A feeling of weakness or wobbliness
How we treat it:
- Balance and proprioception training
- Strengthening exercises targeting the peroneal muscles
- Bracing or orthotics for support
- Education on return-to-activity protocols
Mortons Neuroma
Often described as a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot, Morton’s neuroma is caused by a pinched nerve between the toes, usually due to tight footwear or foot structure.
Common symptoms:
- Burning pain or tingling between the toes
- Feeling of a “pebble” or lump underfoot
- Worse with narrow shoes or high heels
How we treat it:
- Footwear assessment and modification
- Custom orthotics to offload the affected area
- Steroid injections (if required)
- Activity advice and conservative care
Shin splints and lower limb overuse injuries
Often seen in runners or active individuals, medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints) and other overuse injuries can develop due to poor biomechanics, sudden changes in activity, or improper footwear.
Common symptoms:
- Pain or aching in the shins or lower leg
- Worsens with activity
- Improves with rest
How we treat it:
- Biomechanical assessment
- Gait retraining and strength building
- Shock absorption footwear advice
- Custom orthotics
Flat feet and high arches
Both flat feet and high arches can contribute to a range of MSK issues, from arch pain to knee and hip discomfort, depending on how the feet distribute weight.
Common symptoms:
- Pain in the arches or ankles
- Frequent tired or aching legs
- Difficulty finding comfortable footwear
How we treat it:
- Detailed foot posture assessment
- Arch support through bespoke orthotics to improve alignment
- Strengthening exercises
- Footwear guidance
Many MSK issues don’t resolve on their own, and waiting too long can make things worse. At Poized Podiatry, your local Wirral podiatrist, we specialise in identifying the root causes of foot and lower limb pain through detailed assessments and personalised treatment plans.
Our podiatry clinic in Wirral is equipped with the latest in diagnostic and rehabilitation tools, ensuring you get expert care from your very first visit.
Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, arch collapse, tendon issues, or recurring injuries, our goal is always the same: to help you move comfortably, confidently, and pain-free. Through expert assessment, customised treatment plans, and ongoing support, our podiatry clinic in Wirral is equipped with the latest in diagnostic and rehabilitation tools, ensuring you get expert care from your very first visit.