Ankle Sprains:

One of the most common sports injury. The ankle Joint is connected by many ligaments, which prevent excessive motion. Most injuries occur with over use. An untreated ankle sprain can lead to serious problems later on. Always have ankle injury evaluated. Treatment: rest, ice, elevation. Evaluation for instability is important.

Stress fractures:

A small crack in the bone due to repetitive stress across the bone. Most commonly involved are the metatarsals, but can happen in any bone. Most treatment involves rest, immobilization, and decrease inactivity. Some cases if ignored can lead to surgical correction.

Plantar fasciitis:

A very common disorder that affects many people. It happens when a band of tissue on bottom of the foot experiences too much stress. Treatment consists of rest, ice, night splint, injections, and custom orthotics to decrease stress.

Turf toe:

Occurs when hyperextension occurs at the big toe. If untreated can lead to nagging pain. X-rays should be done to evaluate and rule out fracture. Treatment: consists of taping and offloading pads with possible immobilization in walking boot.

Achilles tendonitis: pain from overuse at the back of the heel. The Achilles tendon is largest tendon and provides most strength for push off. Ignoring Achilles tendon pain can lead to long term injury. Always good to check for tears and ruptures. Treatment consists of decreased activity with rest and ice.

Causes:

Genetics, foot type (flat foot) occupation (longer periods of standing), pregnancy and others

Symptoms:

Large bump inside of the foot near big toe, redness, soreness. Bunions may not cause pain at firs; however, they can always increase in size and pain. No one bunion is the same. All bunions should be evaluated and specific treatment options should be individualized. Treatment options range from conservative care (which includes pads/shields, accommodative shoes, and orthotics) to surgery. IF SURGERY IS REQUIRED newer studies have been investigating the effect of frontal plane rotation around the joint on bunion surgery. This is one of many types of surgery our practice offers.

Suffering from bunion pain? Call for an appointment today at Foot and Ankle Physicians for an evaluation of your bunion.