Physiotherapists in Tonypandy treat many different conditions including the issues profiled below.

Physiotherapy and Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a troublesome pain problem which occur in the sole of the foot in the heel region and can be very disabling. Underneath the heel on the calcaneal bone is a bony spur which is one end of the plantar ligament, a ligament which stretches along the foot towards the front. A sudden onset of severe pain on weight bearing on the heel is typical, with the person suddenly feeling they have to walk on tiptoe to avoid the pain. This conditions can occur in anyone but is more common in certain types of arthritic condition where the ligament and bone junctions are affected by the disease.

Physiotherapy assessment begins with a history of the condition and any other medical conditions the patient may be suffering. The foot is examined and the tender area palpated for the typical pain on pressure. The foot posture is checked to see if the patient has a flat foot or a heel deviation in standing,, and the tightness of the calf muscles is also assessed. Treatment involves stretches to the calf muscles, ultrasound to the area and silicone heel pads to reduce the force through the painful area. If not successful then injection of the area can be performed.

Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement was the first of the joint replacements to be developed and has not been practiced for over forty years. The results overall have been very impressive with great improvements in the quality of life of patients, placing the intervention near the top of the most effective medical treatments. Osteoarthritis, the most common joint condition throughout the world, is the main reason for hip replacement. As the joint wears it will show increasing stiffness, pain , loss of range of motion and increasing limitation of functional abilities such as walking and getting up from chairs.

Hip replacement is performed by removing the upper part of the thigh bone which bears the ball, drilling a cavity down into the thigh bone, filling this with cement and introducing a metal component which again bears a ball at the top. The socket is enlarged to receive a plastic socket which then articulates with the ball of the other component. Patients are mobilised into standing or walking the day after surgery by the physiotherapist and an assistant, and are taught range of motion exercises for the hip and correct gait. Once independent in mobility patients are discharged home at between three and five days post surgery.