Sports Injuries

Sports injuries are the most common cause of fractures and other foot trauma. Whether or not you’re an athlete, feet play a critical role in daily activities like jumping, running, and walking. If you’re experiencing pain in your feet, toes, ankles, or lower legs due to injury, reach out to Advanced Ankle and Foot Center in Columbus, Georgia, to find relief. Expert podiatrist John Schoppe, DPM, has years of experience treating various sports injuries and other podiatric concerns, like fractures, sprains, spurs, conditions like Achilles Tendonitis, and much more. Call the office to schedule a consultation, or request one online today.

What are some sports injuries that a podiatrist treats?

Sports injuries include:

Fractures

Fractures are injuries to the bone, usually causing immediate swelling and pain. This type of injury also creates difficulty when standing and walking. Fractures can be caused by sports injuries or a different kind of injury.

A fracture requires immediate treatment by a podiatric professional to avoid further damage, such as nerve or blood vessel complications and bone infections.

Ankle sprain

Sprains can result from a sudden twist, fall, or blow that forces the ankle joint out of its normal position. An ankle sprain is caused by injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle.

Prompt medical attention by a podiatrist or podiatric specialist is necessary to evaluate the severity of the sprain and prescribe treatment.

Achilles Tendonitis

Common among runners, Achilles Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Pain associated with this condition can range from the heel to the calf tendon. 

Nonsurgical treatments like rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and cortisone injections are often very effective as prescribed by your doctor or podiatrist.

Heel pain

Heel pain is commonly caused by heel spurs, which are calcium growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone due to plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis

The connective tissue supporting the foot’s arch (plantar fascia) acts as a shock absorber when walking, running, and jumping. Should the connective tissue become strained or damaged, this can cause a condition called plantar fasciitis.

Treatments include stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medication, orthotics, and more. Your customized treatment plan depends on the severity of the condition and other factors.

When should I see a podiatrist for sports injuries?

Many common sports injuries can affect the feet, ankles, and lower legs, which a podiatrist can help with, including muscle strains and ligament sprains. 

Foot and ankle injuries, like most injuries, can vary in degree of pain, but if pain becomes severe, a podiatrist needs to address it. Severe pain may indicate a fracture or internal problems like nerve damage or a shattered bone and may require surgery.

The skilled podiatrists and staff at Advanced Ankle and Foot Center have extensive experience treating various sports injuries. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or changes in mobility due to sports injury, other injury, or trouble with physical activity in general, call the office as soon as possible to request a consultation. Or request an appointment online today.