Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions

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Lifetime toe walker

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about lower leg, ankle & foot injuries/conditions.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=847
Printed Date: Oct 12 2025 at 11:08am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.03 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Lifetime toe walker

Posted By: Ask a PT
Subject: Lifetime toe walker
Date Posted: May 07 2011 at 1:55pm

Our user asked: "Hello. I am a lifetime toe walker and due to this I have extremely tight calf muscles. They sometimes cause pain and I think they might cause back pain too. I saw a pt doctor who gave me a script. My insurance has recently lapsed so I wont be able to get work on it. Here is what the script says Diagnosis leg pain, Bilateral (ICD-729.5) ? of other specified congenital anomaly spinal cord (ICD-742.59) Instructions: Bilateral leg pain associated with dysfunctional inflexibility evaluate and treat 2/3x week/4 weeks or as needed ROM Strengthening program Modalities as needed The doctor told me doing yoga will help? Ive heard a sleep splint can be helpful. Is there anything else I can do myself since without insurance I dont know when ill be able to see a doctor. Thanks."

Ask a PT Response: "Yes, tight calf muscles could contribute to back pain as the heel cords could affect posture. Performing a dedicated exercise program including calf stretches and core training are helpful in most instances for individuals who have issues with tight heel cords and back pain. A night splint may assist with achieving increase flexibility in some cases as well. You can see our exercise videos page to see some sample video clips for calf stretches (gastrocnemius & soleus stretches): http://www.cyberpt.com/cptvidlist.asp - http://www.cyberpt.com/cptvidlist.asp "