Don’t Ignore the Pain
Whether you work out regularly, are a weekend warrior or even if you are a professional athlete – sports-related foot and ankle injuries are very common. Depending on your sport, your feet and ankles can really take a beating from repetitive play. If you are a runner, your feet are subjected to repeated pounding on paved surfaces, and the side-to-side motion of tennis and soccer increases your risk of an ankle sprain.
Be on the lookout for these common foot and ankle problems that can arise in practice workouts or competitions:
- Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries. A quick evaluation by a foot doctor is essential for an accurate diagnosis, as the injury may really be an ankle fracture. The right treatment and rehabilitation are critical to avoid repeated sprains and chronic ankle instability.
- Heel pain is commonly caused by plantar fasciitis, although stress fractures and nerve injuries may also cause similar symptoms. Plantar fasciitis may result from overly-worn athletic shoes or wearing shoes that are not proper for the sport. Consistent heel pain should be evaluated to rule out a fracture or other cause.
- Achilles tendon disorders such as Achilles tendonitis occur frequently in athletes, where an increase in repetitive activity leads to micro-tearing of the tendon fibers. High-impact sports like basketball can tear and even rupture the tendon. See a foot and ankle surgeon with severe pain and swelling near the heel and an inability to push off the injured foot.
- Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the nerve tissue in the ball of the foot. This painful condition results from irritation and compression of the nerve and can be caused by running or court sports. Nerve damage in the foot should be treated promptly to avoid more serious damage.
- Stress fractures are small, repeated bone breaks due to repetitive activity. These breaks tend to occur when beginning a new exercise routine or returning to one after taking time off. Poor footwear, faulty foot structure, a rigid running or playing surface and activity duration can contribute to a stress fracture. Use the R.I.C.E. treatment method of Rest, Icing, Compression and Elevation until you can visit your foot doctor.
Don’t play through the pain!
Contact us as soon as possible if you have these symptoms or experience any pain from a foot or ankle injury. We’ll make an accurate diagnosis and start the best treatment for your specific situation right away.
Cornerstone Foot & Ankle is a full service foot and ankle specialty office with locations in Sewell, Cherry Hill, Marlton, Mt. Holly, Woodbury, and Glassboro; serving the South Jersey region. We offer a full suite of services including surgery, fracture care, fungal nail care, diabetic foot care, pediatric podiatry, custom braces and orthotics, wound care, limb salvage, and treatments for arch pain, heel pain, and sports injuries; just to name a few. If it hurts below your knee, we can help you! CALL NOW or request your appointment online TODAY!