Sports Injury Treatment in Fleming Island, FL
Athletes, or those who are frequently involved in sporting activities, are generally at a higher risk of getting a foot or ankle injury. Overuse and intense pressure put on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the lower extremity region are typically caused by repetitive motions. This in turn will often cause stress and lead to injury of the foot or ankle. Some of the most common injuries caused by sporting activities include ankle sprains, peroneal tendonitis, stress fractures, chronic ankle instability, heel pain, injury to the Achilles tendon, and injury to the sesamoid bones.
Sports injuries of the foot and ankle generally fall into two groups. Acute injuries happen suddenly, such as rolling an ankle while landing from a jump or breaking a bone during a fall. Overuse injuries develop gradually when the same tissues are stressed repeatedly without enough time to recover. Runners, dancers, and athletes in court and field sports are especially prone to these problems, but weekend exercisers and people who suddenly increase their activity level are also at risk.
Common Sports Injuries of the Foot and Ankle
Ankle Sprains and Chronic Ankle Instability
Ankle sprains are the most common sports related foot and ankle injury. Sports in which ankle sprains commonly occur include soccer, tennis, and cheerleading. A sprain occurs when the ligament holding the ankle bones and joint stretches beyond its normal range or tears, which typically occurs when the foot is rolled in an awkward manner. Ankle sprains are usually accompanied with bruising, swelling, and pain. They can be treated non-surgically with a combination of rest, ice, compression by a bandage, and elevating the ankle. This combination is referred to as RICE. Severe ankle sprains in which the ligaments are torn may require arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery followed by rehabilitation. Those who have sprained an ankle in the past may run the risk of developing chronic ankle instability. Those with this condition will generally feel a persistent pain, swelling, and tenderness in the ankle, and may experience the sensation of the ankle giving way when performing everyday activities.
Achilles Tendonitis and Achilles Rupture
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Running, jumping, and walking can all impact this tendon. Two common injuries to the Achilles tendon are tendonitis and a rupture of the tendon. Achilles tendonitis is inflammation in the tendon often caused by an increase in the amount and intensity of stress placed on it. It can be treated non-surgically with rest, ice, or anti-inflammatory medication. In some cases, surgery may be required. A rupture of the Achilles tendon can be treated by placing the lower leg in a cast for several weeks or with surgery. Both methods require 4 to 6 months of rehabilitation.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone caused by repeated force rather than a single injury. They commonly affect the metatarsal bones in the middle of the foot and often develop in runners and athletes who increase their training too quickly. Pain usually builds during activity and eases with rest, and there may be swelling and tenderness over the bone. Treatment often includes rest, a protective boot or shoe, and a gradual return to activity.
Other Common Athletic Foot Problems
Athletes may also develop plantar fasciitis and other causes of heel pain, peroneal tendonitis along the outside of the ankle, sesamoiditis under the ball of the foot, turf toe, blisters, and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
Preventing Sports Injuries
Many sports injuries can be prevented with the right preparation. Warm up and stretch before exercise, increase the length and intensity of training gradually, and allow time for rest and recovery between workouts. Wear shoes designed for your sport and replace them when they become worn. Strength and balance exercises help protect the ankles, and bracing or taping may be recommended if you have had previous sprains. Custom orthotics can correct imbalances in the way the foot moves and reduce stress on vulnerable areas.
Getting You Back in the Game
Our podiatrists evaluate sports injuries with a thorough examination and, when needed, imaging such as x-rays. Your treatment plan is designed around your injury and your goals, and may include rest and activity modification, bracing or immobilization, physical therapy, orthotics, medication, or surgery for more serious injuries. A careful, gradual return to sport helps reduce the risk of re-injury.
If you’re frequently involved in sporting activities and would like more information on how to best protect your foot and ankle, we recommend you speak with a podiatrist for professional care and advice.
