Our feet and ankles are used every single day. Sometimes they are used for balance, sometimes they are used for sport, and other times they are used as transportation. Our feet allow us to participate in an amazing number of activities. Unfortunately, we sometimes forget to take care of our feet. We use them so much that they begin to break down and suffer from more severe issues.
There are many types of foot and ankle injuries that are attributed to overuse. Some of these injuries are considered mild and common while others can be much more severe and rare. Here are 4 of the most common foot and ankle injuries that can occur from overuse:
- Achilles Tendonitis – This condition is due to the overuse of the Achilles tendon. Normally, it is due to an activity that requires a lot of jumping. More often than not, it occurs in children ages fourteen and older. Rest, stretching, properly fitting shoes, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication can help curb and heal the condition over time.
- Sever's Disease – This disease is caused by the inflammation in the heel bone before the skeleton hits maturity. The growth plate near where the Achilles tendon attaches is usually the most affected area. The use of heel pads, a heel cup, ice, rest, stretches and modification to daily exercise can treat this disorder. Casting is also used occasionally to further treatment.
- Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation of the sole of the foot, or the plantar’s arch, is what causes this disorder. It is usually more painful in the morning and the pain decreases throughout the day. Rest, ice, pain medication and stretching are used to treat it. Arch supports as well as other orthotics are usually good tools to put into properly fitting shoes to help the arch heal over time.
- Stress Fractures - Stress fractures are tiny little fractures that are caused by repeated stress from micro trauma. A sudden increase in activity and exertion is usually the cause of a stress fracture. If these tiny fractures are ignored, they can become more severe and eventually turn into a full foot fracture.
Do you have pain in your Achilles, arch, or other part of your foot? Do you do a lot of constant repetitive physical activities and are afraid you may hurt your foot? Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona can help you diagnose your foot or ankle injury. Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn are highly trained and skilled podiatrists who have worked with overuse injuries for many years. Call 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online. Let us treat your feet.
