Some folks suffer for years with foot or ankle pain, searching for the right combination of shoes, pads or inserts that makes their discomfort bearable. If you suffer from foot pain, heel pain, shin splints, flat feet or high arches, you should know that you’re not alone. Because the foot and ankle must absorb tremendous amounts of force, even during standing and leisure walking, the soft tissues that support and surround the many joints located often become inflamed or injured. The Human Performance Center’s staff is uniquely trained to evaluate and treat people who experience foot and ankle problems.

• Our staff will quickly pinpoint your problem and recommend a plan of treatment that’s just right for your particular condition. We’ve found that foot and ankle problems are unique to every individual.

• Pain elimination or reduction is always a first priority—especially during standing and walking activities.

• However, pain relief is only the beginning. You’ll learn what caused your original problem and how to prevent future symptoms or limitations.

• If orthotic inserts, special taping or other shoe modifications are indicated, you’ll learn how to use these to prevent further problems.

• After a thorough examination that includes a biomechanical stance and gait analysis, our foot and ankle specialists will design a specific treatment program that’s meant to improve or regain flexibility and strength while reducing pain.

• You may be taught to use special shoe pads or taping techniques for better compression and support.

• You may be given foot orthotics that change the way your foot meets the ground and allows the muscle groups that control your feet to be in better balance.

• Inexpensive, prefab products can be very effective but if not, durable, custom-made devices that are soft, semi-rigid or rigid can be fabricated just for you.

Individuals come to the Human Performance Center in a variety of ways. You or a family member can contact us and set up an appointment. Or your physician or other health care provider can refer you. In either case, we coordinate our care with your personal physician or other care provider. In order to bill your insurance company, we’ll need a medical diagnosis. Please contact us by phone at: (805) 687-8553. Or e-mail us at: info@hpcsb.com.