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Foot arch exercises

Foot & ankle · Flat foot and inner arch pain

How to use this sheet. Do the exercises slowly. Stop before the pain builds — mild discomfort is fine, sharp pain is not. A little every day beats a lot once a week.

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Short foot arch lift

Short foot arch lift

Foot flat on the floor. Draw the ball of the foot towards the heel to lift the arch, without curling the toes.

  • 10 times
  • 2 times a day

Should feel: The arch of the foot working Should not feel: Toes curling, or cramp in the sole

Turning the sole inward

Turning the sole inward

Band round the forefoot, anchored out to the side. Turn the sole inward against the band, keeping the knee still.

  • 15 times
  • 2 times a day

Should feel: The muscle along the inner ankle working Should not feel: Sharp pain behind the inner ankle bone

Calf raises

Calf raises

Rise on both toes, progress to one.

  • 15 times
  • Daily

Should feel: The calf working Should not feel: Ankle pain

Calf stretch, knee straight

Calf stretch, knee straight

Hands on a wall, back leg straight, heel down.

  • Hold 30 seconds
  • 3 each side

Should feel: A stretch in the upper calf Should not feel: Pain in the heel

Stop and telephone us if

  • You cannot rise onto your toes on one leg
  • The pain is getting worse, not better, after two weeks
  • You get new numbness, tingling or weakness
  • The joint swells up or locks
  • You feel unwell or feverish

Ready when you are.

Call either clinic during consulting hours, or send a WhatsApp message any time.