48. Supporting the Foot and Ankle with Andrea Zujko, DPT

In this Bendy Bodies podcast episode, Andrea Zujko, DPT, shares insights on foot and ankle care for individuals with hypermobility, especially dancers with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). The discussion focuses on the challenges of hypermobile feet, particularly in dancers, who may achieve visually pleasing lines but face complications like ankle sprains, stress fractures, and tendon issues. Andrea emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of different bones and joints, such as the talus, and the need for proper stability, alignment, and conditioning. She offers advice on managing injuries, the importance of appropriate recovery time, and why strength conditioning and controlled stretching are critical in preventing injuries. Additionally, she highlights the complexity of bunions and their potential link to improper technique and footwear. Overall, Andrea advocates for a holistic approach to managing these conditions, incorporating body-wide assessment and personalized strengthening programs to support the unique needs of hypermobile individuals.