As a former competitive athlete, I know what it is like to deal with foot and ankle pain. It is part of the reason I have devoted my life to this profession. Our goal is to get you back to competing as quickly and safely as possible.
Common sports injuries we treat include:
The severity of an ankle sprain depends on whether the ligament is stretched, partially torn or completely torn and how many ligaments are involved. Ankle sprains require prompt attention to assess the degree of injury and initiate the proper treatment. In the meantime, begin using the " R.I.C.E." treatment method. Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. This will reduce swelling, pain, and further injury.
Chronic ankle instability can develop after an ankle sprain has not healed adequately or was not rehabilitated completely. Repeated ankle sprains perpetuate the instability. Proper rehab to strengthen the muscles around the joint and retrain the tissues within the the ankle are necessary to promote balance. If you feel like your ankle is wobbly or feels like it gives way easily while playing sports, or when on uneven surfaces, further evaluation should be done to reduce continued instability and the potential for longer term arthritis and tendon problems.
An acute fracture is caused by a direct blow or injury while a stress fracture or hairline cracks in the bone is caused by an unusual stress applied to the bone. Stress fractures may occur in athletes who too rapidly increase their running mileage or from wearing the improper shoe type. Structural abnormalities, deformities and decreased bone density may also increase risk for stress fractures. Sprains and fractures can have similar symptoms but usually with a sprain the entire region hurts while with a fracture there is more pain localized to one point.
The sesamoids are two small bones located under the big toe joint which act as a pulley and provide leverage for the tendon when pushing off during walking or running. Common injuries to this area include Turf Toe which is a sprain of the soft tissues surrounding the joint, Sesamoid Fractures, or bruising of a sesamoid bone called sesamoiditis.
The Achilles Tendon or " Heel Cord" runs down the back of the back of the lower leg connecting the heel to the calf muscle. Under conditioned athletes and especially "week end warriors" are especially high risk for developing Achilles problems. Initial tendonitis (inflammation) can progress to a more chronic condition called tendonosis (degeneration of the tendon) which can then weaken and lead to an Achilles Rupture.
Although most heel pain is caused by plantar fasciits, it is important to rule out other potential causes in athletes. Heel pain may also be associated with a stress fracture of the heel bone, an irritated or pinched nerve, tendonitis, arthritis or occasionally a cyst. Proper diagnosis and prompt treatment are important to speed your recovery. Like most conditions, a delayed diagnosis and treatment often results in a longer recovery time. The initial hallmark symptoms of plantar fasciitis is pain upon arising after sitting or resting.