Foot Pain: Causes and Connections to Other Symptoms - Rehabilitation

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Understanding foot pain and its connections to other symptoms can be complex, especially when multiple areas of the body are involved. Based on your description, it seems that your left foot has been experiencing a range of issues over the past few years, including pain in the arch and center of the foot, swelling and pain in the calf, and discomfort in the thigh. Additionally, you mentioned experiencing tailbone discomfort after prolonged sitting and having a history of scoliosis.
Firstly, the pain in your foot, particularly when transitioning from a standing to a walking position, could indeed be related to a few conditions. One possibility is plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. This condition is often characterized by sharp pain in the heel or arch, especially after periods of rest or when first getting up in the morning. The sensation of "muscle dropping" you described may also be related to muscle fatigue or weakness in the foot's intrinsic muscles, which can be exacerbated by improper biomechanics or previous injuries.

The history of a mild injury four years ago could have led to chronic issues if the injury did not heal properly or if compensatory patterns developed. Ligament injuries can lead to instability in the foot, which may contribute to conditions like plantar fasciitis or even tarsal tunnel syndrome, where the tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, leading to pain and numbness in the foot.

The swelling and pain in your calf and thigh could be indicative of a few different issues. One possibility is venous insufficiency, where the veins in the legs do not adequately return blood to the heart, leading to swelling and discomfort. Another consideration could be referred pain from the lower back, especially given your history of scoliosis. Scoliosis can lead to uneven distribution of weight and stress on the lower extremities, potentially causing pain in the legs and feet.

The discomfort in your tailbone after prolonged sitting may also be related to your scoliosis. The misalignment of the spine can lead to increased pressure on certain areas, including the tailbone, especially when sitting for long periods. This discomfort could also be exacerbated by tightness in the hip flexors or gluteal muscles, which can occur due to prolonged sitting.

In summary, your foot pain and the associated symptoms in your calf, thigh, and tailbone may be interconnected. The underlying causes could range from plantar fasciitis and ligament injuries to issues related to scoliosis and possible venous insufficiency. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies, to determine the exact nature of your conditions. Treatment may involve physical therapy to strengthen the foot and leg muscles, improve flexibility, and address any biomechanical issues. Additionally, addressing your scoliosis with appropriate interventions may help alleviate some of the discomfort you are experiencing in your lower back and legs.
In the meantime, consider using supportive footwear, engaging in gentle stretching exercises for your legs and feet, and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting without breaks to help manage your symptoms.