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SPORTS INJURIES

SPORTS INJURIES

Comprehensive Care for Athletes of All Levels

Sports injuries are common among athletes of all ages and skill levels, ranging from minor sprains to more severe conditions requiring surgical intervention. Whether you're a professional athlete or someone who enjoys recreational sports, proper care and treatment of sports injuries are crucial for a quick recovery and a successful return to your activity. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of sports injuries, ensuring you receive the personalized care you need to get back in the game.

Common Sports Injuries

Sports injuries can occur in various forms, depending on the activity, intensity, and physical condition of the athlete. Some of the most common sports injuries we treat include:

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Ankle Sprains

One of the most frequent injuries in sports, ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are overstretched or torn. This can happen during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, such as basketball, soccer, and running.



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Achilles Tendonitis

This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is often caused by overuse and is common among runners and athletes who engage in repetitive jumping activities.



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Plantar Fasciitis

Characterized by pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia (a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot) becomes inflamed. This injury is common in runners and athletes who spend a lot of time on their feet.

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Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, often seen in athletes who participate in high-impact sports like running, basketball, and gymnastics. They are most commonly found in the foot and lower leg.

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Shin Splints

Also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, shin splints cause pain along the front or inner part of the lower leg. This injury is common in runners, dancers, and military personnel who engage in repetitive activities on hard surfaces.

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Turf Toe

Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe joint, usually resulting from a sudden push-off movement on a hard surface, such as artificial turf. It is common in football, soccer, and other sports that involve quick changes in direction.



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Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone, often in conjunction with plantar fasciitis. They can cause significant pain and discomfort, especially during activities that involve running or jumping.

Symptoms of Heel Problems

Heel problems can present a range of symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

Sharp or Stabbing Pain

Particularly with plantar fasciitis and heel spurs, pain is often sharp and most noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Aching or Throbbing Pain

Conditions like Achilles tendinitis and bursitis often cause a deep, aching pain that worsens with activity.

Swelling and Redness

Inflammation around the heel can lead to visible swelling, redness, and tenderness.

Stiffness

Tightness and stiffness in the heel, particularly in the morning or after rest, are common symptoms of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.

Treatment Options for Heel Problems

At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating heel pain, tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle:

Conservative Treatments

Initial treatments often include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with anti-inflammatory medications. Stretching exercises and physical therapy may also be recommended to relieve pain and improve flexibility.

Custom Orthotics

For many heel problems, custom orthotics can provide the necessary support and cushioning to relieve pressure on the heel and promote proper foot alignment.

Injections

Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from severe heel pain.

Shockwave Therapy

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area, particularly for plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Surgical Intervention

In rare cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered to address the underlying cause of heel pain.

Why Choose Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic?

At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, our priority is to provide personalized care that addresses the root cause of your heel pain. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of experienced podiatrists, we offer effective treatments to help you return to your daily activities without pain.


Don’t let heel pain hold you back. Visit one of our five convenient podiatric offices in Charlotte University, Ballantyne, South Park, Concord, or Harrisburg to schedule an appointment today. We're here to help you find lasting relief and regain your mobility.

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