The four most common foot injuries reported by runners and athletes are stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, turf toe, and bunions. Plantar fasciitis is caused by microtears and inflammation in the band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, that runs beneath the foot. Stress fractures are tiny, hairline cracks in the bones of the feet, mainly the metatarsals, often a result of overtraining. Because the fractures are so small, detecting them may be difficult. An MRI or a bone scan may be necessary to see them. Turf toe is caused by overextending the joint of the big toe, common to athletes who repeatedly push off from the big toe. This may include football players, dancers, and gymnasts, among others. Bunions, which are largely thought to be genetic in nature, can be further aggravated by wearing improperly fitting shoes. Any of these types of foot pain can increase if a person is overweight, overtrains, or wears improper shoes for their activity. For more information on dealing with foot pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for treatment options.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
