Sports injuries to the feet and ankle areas are extremely common. Most athletes – especially footballers, cricketers, runners and even amateur sports or exercise enthusiasts – are prone to sports injuries. Upto 15% of all sports injuries occur in the foot and ankle and if you are worried, please contact CuraFoot Clinic for an appointment.
Causes:
Foot and ankle injuries for athletes can be caused for a number of reasons such as:
- Overuse
- Rapid warm up
- Sports requiring playing on hard surfaces (such as basketball)
- Unnatural bent of the ankle
- Blunt force trauma
Conditions:
Common foot conditions caused as a result of sports include:
1. Plantar fasciitis
2. Achilles tendonitis
3. Sprains and fractures
4. Ball of foot pain
5. Cramps
6. Flat feet
7. Corns & calluses
9. Athlete’s feet (fungal infection to your feet)
One of the best ways to avoid any of the above is by investing in custom sports shoes or custom insoles specifically designed to support your feet. These redistribute feet pressure and also avoid overstraining any particular tendon or muscle. It is very important to have the right footwear to suit your feet and level of activity.
Symptoms:
Swelling from sports injury
See a doctor immediately if you show any of the following signs:
1. Sharp, stabbing pain
2. Swelling or redness
3. Numbness or insensation
4. Instability or weakness in the joint or foot
5. Unnatural bent of the ankle or foot
6. Tenderness or soreness
7. Continuous dull pain of the foot
You may be suffering from a sudden trauma or from an injury that is caused by wear and tear of the muscles or tendons from prolonged use and pressure.
Treatment:
There treatments – targeted towards athletes – deal specifically with sports injuries and related conditions. Usually an athlete suffering from injuries is kept away from playing further till the time that the condition is completely cured.
Often, because of inadequate rest, the condition tends to recur and may cause more severe damage. In extreme cases of damage, surgery may be required.
Non-invasive treatments are adapted by podiatrists in case of mild to moderate injuries. Such injuries can heal over time if the complete treatment cycle is followed through along with adequate rest.
Treatments vary depending on the kind of injury. Here are some basic treatment steps that you can follow immediately after an injury:
- Use ice packs or compressions to reduce the swelling and the pain.
- Do not put pressure on the foot and provide rest.
- Elevate your feet and rest to improve blood circulation.
