Common Foot and Ankle Injuries And How We Can Help

Do you suffer from foot or ankle pain? The podiatrists at Regional Foot and Ankles Specialists in Turnersville and Pennsauken, NJ, discuss common injuries and explain how foot doctors can help you get back on your feet.

Plantar fasciitis

Heel pain can be caused by plantar fasciitis, a condition that occurs when the band of tissue that runs between your toes and heels underneath your foot becomes inflamed. Your risk of developing the condition rises with age and is more likely to occur if you are overweight or enjoy walking or running. If you have the condition, you may notice that your pain is worse in the morning and after standing.

Sprains

Sprained feet and ankles can be very painful. The problem occurs when you stretch or tear ligaments. Although most sprains aren't serious, severe sprains can destabilize your ankle, resulting in the need for surgery.

Did your toe start hurting after a weekend game of football or soccer? Turf toe occurs when you hyperextend your big toe and sprain the ligaments. Symptoms of turf toe include pain and swelling in your big toe and the ball of your foot. You may find if difficult to push off on the foot or even put any weight on it if you have turf toe.

Achilles tendon injuries

Pain in your heel can be caused by an injury to your Achilles tendon, the large tendon that connects your heel to the muscles in your calf. If you ignore the pain in your heel and continue your usual activity, tears in the tendon may occur. Full or partial tears of the tendon can also occur when you're participating in an activity and sport.

Prompt treatment is essential

Many types of pain eventually go away if you give your body the chance to heal itself. Unfortunately, if you don't receive treatment for lingering symptoms, you may eventually develop a chronic foot or ankle condition. During a visit to our Pennsauken or Turnersville office, you'll receive a thorough examination and a diagnosis of your condition. Orthotics, custom-designed shoe inserts, may be helpful if you have Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis. No matter what your diagnosis, casts, braces, walking boots and crutches may be recommended, in some cases, in addition to various types of therapy, including cortisone injections,  and ultrasound or shock wave therapy.

Ankle and foot pain doesn't have to take over your life. Call podiatrists at Regional Foot and Ankles Specialists at the Pennsauken, NJ, office (856) 488-5290 or Turnersville, NJ, office (856) 875-8855 to schedule an appointment.