Foot Mobilising Therapy

At Hobsonville Podiatry we utilise Foot Mobilisation regularly as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan for many different injuries. You don’t have to be injured to benefit from foot mobilising though, we have plenty of customers who come for regular “maintenance” appointments to keep their feet functioning well and prevent injuries from occurring.

What is foot mobilisation therapy?

Foot mobilisation therapy (FMT) is a hands-on manual therapy which aids in reducing restrictions, enhancing flexibility therefore restoring function. Poor foot alignment and function leads to overload on some structures of the foot and ankle. Over time this can result in tight and stiff joints and associated discomfort. Previous injuries can also exacerbate tightening in the joints as a result of scar tissue formation.

FMT works off 3 basic principles:

1. Release soft tissue restrictions to loosen up stiff joints.
2. Stimulate synovial fluid production – your joints natural lubricant.
3. Desensitise joint pain receptors and decrease muscle guarding.

What happens during an FMT session?

During the FMT treatment the joints of the feet are gently guided through their passive range of motion in order to gently release connective tissue tightness and restriction. Releasing these restrictions restores joint function, improves range of motion and quality of movement through the joints. These techniques are utilised to aid the body in creating physiological changes to the alignment and function of your foot. FMT also stimulates proprioceptors (nerve endings) which affect how muscles in your feet ‘fire’. In essence, muscles get ‘retrained’ to improve stability and balance. Our podiatrists will prescribe exercises which work alongside our FMT treatments.

We have also creams and products we recommend to keep your skin soft and prevent it from drying out.

What does it feel like?

FMT is a pain free treatment – most clients say it feels like a nice massage. If there is a lot of pressure built up in the joints the joint may ‘click’ – this should usually feel quite relieving.

What injuries benefit from foot mobilisation therapy?

• Ankle sprains
• Stiff ankles
• Heel pain
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Sore arches
• Forefoot pain
• Foot cramps
• Big Toe Pain
• Poor balance