There are many different types of foot and ankle sports injuries that can occur. Playing sports such as soccer, basketball, or even participating in dance can place significant strain on your feet and ankles. Over time, repetitive use can weaken bones, strain ligaments, and even lead to fractures.
Understanding Foot and Ankle Sports Injuries
At Coastal Podiatry Associates, our doctors commonly diagnose and treat the following conditions:
- Ankle Sprains: Damage or tearing of a ligament in the ankle.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes on the bottom of the foot.
- Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the bones of the feet or heels caused by repetitive stress.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.
- Turf Toe: A sprain of the big toe joint.
- Heel Spurs: A calcium buildup on the underside of the heel bone that forms a bony growth.
- Sesamoiditis: Inflammation of the sesamoid bones and surrounding tendons in the forefoot.
Click on each condition to learn more about its specific causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Sports Injury Symptoms to Watch For
- Persistent pain in the foot, heel, or ankle
- Swelling or bruising that does not improve
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- A popping sensation or sound at the time of injury
Diagnosis and Treatment for Sports Injuries
Our doctors diagnose sports injuries by carefully listening to your concerns and performing a thorough physical examination. In some cases, advanced imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be recommended to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment options may include:
- Rest and immobilization
- Rehabilitation therapy
- Shockwave therapy
- Custom orthotics
- Minimally invasive surgery
