Physical medicine
Through this service, patients can access a full range of treatments including dry needling and massage, heat therapy through paraffin baths, joint mobilisation/manipulation and strapping, as well as muscle stretching and strengthening exercise programs.
Physical medicine techniques are commonly used in podiatry to help manage pain, improve mobility and support recovery from foot and lower limb conditions. These hands-on and therapeutic approaches are often used alongside other treatments such as exercise therapy, footwear advice or orthotic management to address underlying biomechanical factors and support tissue healing.
Massage therapy
Soft tissue massage can be used to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation and assist with recovery from overuse injuries. Massage may improve blood flow to affected tissues and relax tight muscles, reducing pain and improving mobility. Evidence suggests that therapeutic massage may be beneficial for musculoskeletal pain and soft tissue dysfunction when combined with other treatment approaches.
Heat therapy (paraffin wax baths)
Joint mobilisation and manipulation
Joint mobilization and manipulation techniques involve applying controlled movements to joints in the foot and ankle to improve joint motion and reduce stiffness. These techniques may help restore normal joint mechanics and reduce pain associated with restricted joint movement. Evidence from musculoskeletal research suggests that manual therapy techniques can improve range of motion and pain outcomes when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Strapping and taping
Strapping or taping techniques are used to support the foot and ankle, modify movement patterns and reduce strain on injured structures. This can help manage conditions such as plantar heel pain, tendon injuries or ankle instability. Research indicates that therapeutic taping may help reduce pain and improve function in the short term by altering load distribution and providing external support.
Muscle stretching and strengthening
Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises are often prescribed to address muscle tightness, weakness or imbalances that contribute to foot and lower limb conditions. Stretching can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in muscles and tendons, while strengthening exercises help improve stability and control during walking or running. There is strong evidence supporting exercise therapy as a key component in managing many musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and lower limb.
These physical medicine techniques are selected based on the individual patient’s needs and are typically integrated into a broader treatment plan aimed at improving function, reducing pain and supporting long-term foot health.