Sports Injuries
No matter what level—from youth sports up to professional leagues—or sport, every athlete who participates in physical activity has an increased risk factor for injury. The benefits of an active lifestyle outweigh the risk of injury, though, especially given that we treat many common sports injuries with the use of conservative, nonsurgical methods. Additionally, proper footwear, stretching, and warming up can all be used to reduce injury risk.
Ankle Sprains
This particular sports injury is actually rather common to everyone, as all it takes is an unnoticed dip in the lawn or a misjudged step for an ankle sprain to occur. Participating in athletic competition does increase the likelihood of a sprained ankle, however. This injury happens when a foot twists beyond its intended range and the ligaments that support the joint become stretched and torn. Conservative care is often quite effective for treating this injury.
Stress Fractures
Unlike other instances of broken bones, these fractures are tiny cracks in the surface of the bone that happen as the result of repeated exposure to pressure. The foot and ankle possess a total of 26 bones, many of which are quite thin and subjected to tremendous force loads during running and even while walking. RICE therapy—rest, ice, compression, and elevation—is part of the treatment we may recommend.
Achilles Tendinitis
The Achilles tendon plays an essential role in allowing the foot to move up and down, which is necessary for running and jumping. When this tendon faces intense, sudden strain or after prolonged periods of repeated trauma, it can weaken and become tender, stiff, and painful. If the strain is great enough, it can cause the Achilles tendon to rupture, which may require a surgical procedure.
Plantar Fasciitis
The most common source of heel pain for adults, plantar fasciitis is a condition that develops when the
planter fascia—a tough band of fibrous tissue lining the bottom of the foot—becomes damaged or inflamed. There are other causes and risk factors, but activities like dance aerobics, ballet dancing, and long-distance running are activities that can place excessive tension on the tissue and lead to pain.
Turf Toe
Athletes and fans often cringe upon hearing the term turf toe, but many do not understand what actually happens in this injury. Turf toe is essentially a sprain of the big toe that happens when it is planted in the ground while the rest of the foot continues moving forward. This hyperextension sprains the supporting ligaments and causes swelling, pain, and restricted movement at the base of the affected big toe.
Lisfranc Injury
The Lisfranc complex is a series of bones and connective tissue that make up the midfoot. This area where the tarsal and metatarsal bones meet can potentially suffer from sprains, fractures and dislocations. Running and playing football (and other contact sports) are particular risk factors for suffering an injury to the midfoot.
Sever’s Disease (Calcaneal Apophysis)
While Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysis) is a “growing pain” that could happen to any youngster, it is more commonly experienced by adolescents who participate in athletic events. The condition can cause swelling, discomfort, and difficulty with walking. These symptoms are often worse during an activity, but improve with rest.
Morton’s Neuroma
Certain high-impact sports, downhill skiing, rock climbing, and other activities that subject the feet to repeated trauma can lead to this condition. A Morton’s neuroma often creates burning, tingling, numbness, or physical sensations in the toes that shouldn’t exist (like feeling as though you are standing on a pebble when there is nothing there).
Sports Injury Treatment in Spring Valley, NY
There are clearly many types of sports injuries that can happen while staying active, but the good news is that most cases are effectively treated through the use of conservative treatment. Of course, we are ready to assist by providing surgical procedures when necessary as well.
When foot or ankle injury strikes during the game or at practice, contact Brook Valley Podiatry for the treatment you need. Call our Spring Valley office at (845) 352-0757 or schedule your appointment with our online form.