The Most Common Foot and Ankle Injuries to Watch Out For, According to Our Ballantyne Podiatrist

Hitting your workout too fast or too hard after a long period of rest can put strain on your heels, calves, tendons, and joints. Therefore, be sure to build up your conditioning slowly, and look out for the following common foot and ankle injuries as you hit the track, basketball court, or gym.

Plantar Fasciitis

A common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes swollen or irritated. The pain is most severe after long periods of rest—for instance, the first thing in the morning, or when you get up after a few hours of sitting at work—and subsides with more activity. If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, you can treat it at home with rest, stretches, ice, and NSAIDs. If the condition worsens or seems to be constantly recurring, make sure to see a podiatrist to make sure you don’t have an underlying condition.

Achilles Tendonitis and Achilles Tears

Achilles tendonitis is a swelling of the Achilles tendon, which extends from the heel to the calf muscle. The condition is usually caused by wearing high heels, failing to stretch before an activity, or having flat feet or fallen arches. An Achilles tear is caused by a  sudden, sharp rotation past your ankle’s usual range of movement. If you experience either Achilles tendonitis or an Achilles tear, make sure to see a foot specialist to determine the extent of the injury.

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are small cracks that develop in the bones of the feet, ankle and legs. They are most commonly caused by overuse in high-impact sports like distance running, or by wearing worn-out, unsupportive shoes. The most common locations of stress fractures are the second and third metatarsals in the foot, as well as the bone at the top of the foot, called the navicular. If you notice pain in your foot or ankle that abates when you are off your feet, possibly with accompanying swelling and bruising around the site of the pain, see your podiatrist as early as possible, as an undiagnosed/untreated stress fracture will develop into a complete break of the bone.

Have a Foot or Ankle injury? See a Podiatrist in Ballantyne

If you believe you’ve sustained a foot or ankle injury while playing your favorite sport, make sure to see a podiatrist sooner rather than later. If left unexamined, mild foot and ankle discomfort could lead to a more severe injury that keeps you off the court for months. To stay outdoor and active this season, visit Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic or a podiatrist near you.