Understanding Muscle Atrophy After Foot Injuries: Recovery & Prevention Tips

It is not a hidden fact that many people suffer from a life changing foot injury which leads to severe discomfort on a daily. Injuries to the foot, like a foot ligament injury, can lead to more than just temporary discomfort. They often bring along a hidden challenge: muscle atrophy in legs and feet. This condition, where muscles shrink and weaken due to inactivity, is a common outcome of prolonged recovery periods of injuries. If you’re navigating your foot ligament injury recovery time or wondering, “Can muscle atrophy be reversed?”, then you’ve reached the right place. Because, this blog dives into the causes, symptoms, and solutions for this issue. 

If you are someone who has recently suffered from a leg injury and is experiencing muscle atrophy in your leg or foot, then continue reading this blog to learn more about effective tips and information to navigate your recovery. 

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What Causes Muscle Atrophy in the Foot?

Muscle atrophy occurs when muscles are not used enough, leading to a reduction in their size and strength. After a foot ligament injury, this can happen rapidly due to decreased mobility and limited weight-bearing. According to studies, muscle strength can decrease by up to 20% in just two weeks of immobilisation. Some culprits of muscle atrophy are:

• Prolonged Immobilization: Wearing a cast or boot to protect the injury limits muscle activity.
• Reduced Nerve Activation: Injuries can sometimes disrupt the signals that keep muscles active.
• Delayed Rehabilitation: Neglecting exercises during the foot ligament injury recovery time can exacerbate muscle loss.

Without intervention, atrophied muscles can weaken the foot’s structure, increasing the risk of re-injury. 

BTW, if you are a football player or like to indulge in weekend football games, then our blog on understanding common football injuries can come in handy. You can read our blog on ‘How to prevent and manage common football injuries’ to learn more. 

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Signs of Foot Muscle Atrophy

Recognising the early symptoms of muscle atrophy is key to effective recovery. Some common signs are:

• Depletion of Muscles: A noticeable loss of volume in the muscles or firmness in the foot or lower leg muscles.
• Weakness: Individuals often struggle with simple activities like standing on tiptoes or walking.
• Postural Changes: Misalignment in the foot, which can lead to altered gait or balance issues.

If left unchecked, these symptoms can lead to long-term complications, making timely intervention crucial.

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Exercises to Prevent Muscle Atrophy

When recovering from a foot ligament injury, incorporating targeted exercises into your routine can significantly reduce the risk of muscle atrophy. Here are some effective options:

• Toe Curls: Place a small towel under your toes and scrunch it toward you. This activates the small muscles in your foot’s arch.
• Calf Raises: Stand on the edge of a step and lift your heels. This strengthens the calf muscles and supports ankle stability.
• Ankle Rotations: Rotate your ankles clockwise and counterclockwise to improve joint mobility and activate stabiliser muscles.
• Towel Stretch: Sit on the floor, loop a towel around your foot, and gently pull it toward you to stretch the Achilles tendon and calf.

These exercises not only maintain muscle tone but also improve circulation, which speeds up healing.

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Physiotherapy for Foot Atrophy

Professional physiotherapy is a cornerstone of recovery for muscle atrophy in the legs and feet. A physiotherapist provides personalised care, and some of the techniques they use are mentioned below:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques to loosen stiff muscles and improve blood flow.
• Progressive Loading: Gradual reintroduction of weight-bearing exercises to rebuild strength.

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Granimals specialises in offering expert physiotherapy for foot atrophy, leg ligament injury, while guiding patients through safe and effective recovery programs tailored to their needs. You can schedule a call with our physiotherapists to learn more. 

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Can Muscle Atrophy Be Reversed?

Yes, muscle atrophy is reversible, but it requires consistency and professional intervention. According to research and studies, even severely atrophied muscles can regain strength through targeted recovery and rehab done under the supervision of an expert. 

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The process generally includes the following:

1. Progressive Strength Training: Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase resistance.
2. Diet Support: Consuming adequate protein and nutrients to fuel muscle regrowth.
3. Patience and Persistence: Recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of atrophy and your adherence to therapy.

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Success Stories and Statistics

• A 2020 study published in the Journal of Orthopedic Research states that, patients who underwent early rehabilitation after a foot ligament injury reduced their recovery time by upto 40%. They recover faster, and effectively too.
• 85% of patients who follow a structured exercise routine and physiotherapy programs report significant improvement in mobility and strength within 12 weeks of rehab. Showing, that majority saw a significant improvement in their condition with guided support and early intervention.

These numbers highlight the importance of timely intervention and professional guidance. 

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Take the First Step to Recovery

Don’t let a foot ligament injury lead to long-term muscle atrophy. At Granimals, our expert physiotherapists are here to help you recover strength, mobility, and confidence. Fill out the form below to book a free service demo consultation with us and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier you!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the best muscle atrophy exercises for the foot?
Simple exercises like toe curls, calf raises, and ankle rotations are highly effective. A physiotherapist can design a more personalised plan to suit your specific needs.

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Q3. How long does recovery take after a foot ligament injury?
Recovery depends on the severity of the injury. Minor injuries may heal in 6–8 weeks, while more severe cases can take 12 weeks or longer. Incorporating physiotherapy and exercises can speed up recovery and prevent complications like muscle atrophy.

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Q2. When should I consult a physiotherapist for muscle atrophy symptoms?
If you notice persistent weakness, visible muscle shrinkage, or difficulty walking, consult a physiotherapist immediately. Early intervention can prevent further complications and accelerate recovery.

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