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Trail running exposes the feet and ankles to forces and hazards not found on smooth pavement. Uneven ground, hidden roots, and shifting rocks can quickly lead to rolled ankles, strained ligaments, or stress fractures. The constant changes in slope and surface demand rapid adjustments in foot placement, increasing the chance of missteps that overstretch tendons or tear soft tissue. Repeated downhill impact can bruise the heel or inflame structures like the plantar fascia. In some cases, sudden landings on unstable surfaces cause foot bone injuries that require weeks of recovery. Trail conditions such as mud, loose gravel, and water crossings can make slips more likely, leading to sharp impacts or twisting falls. Because these injuries can escalate and lead to long-term complications if ignored, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for any lingering pain, swelling, or difficulty bearing weight after a run.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains and ankle strains are among the most frequent causes of ankle pain, yet they involve different tissues. A sprain affects the ligaments, which are the strong bands of tissue that hold the bones of the ankle together. These ligaments can stretch or tear if the ankle twists too far, such as when stepping off a curb or landing awkwardly during sports. A strain involves the muscles or tendons of the ankle, which can be overstretched or torn from overuse, sudden movements, or repetitive force, such as running long distances or frequent jumping. Both injuries can cause swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking, but sprains typically occur from acute trauma, while strains are more often linked to chronic overuse. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact problem and provide the proper treatment to restore function. If you have incurred an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures in the foot occur when repeated stress causes small cracks in bones that support weight during walking, running, or standing for a long time. These injuries often affect the metatarsals, especially the second and third, which are slender bones near the middle of the foot that bear significant force during activity. The calcaneus, or heel bone, can also develop stress fractures from impact, while the navicular bone on the top midfoot is prone to injury during jumping or sprinting. Less commonly, the talus bone in the ankle joint may become injured. Symptoms of stress fractures include pain during weight-bearing that eases with rest, along with tenderness and swelling in the affected area. Stress fractures can be the result of muscle fatigue, sudden increases in activity, or bones weakened by underlying conditions. A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture using a physical exam and imaging, such as an MRI scan, and may recommend rest, immobilization, or surgery, in severe cases. If you are experiencing symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A metatarsal stress fracture is a tiny crack in one of the long bones of the foot, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse during activities like running or jumping. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsens with activity. Preventing metatarsal stress fractures involves gradually increasing activity levels, wearing supportive footwear, and incorporating rest days into your exercise routine. Proper warm-up and stretching before activities can also reduce the risk. Treatment typically includes using supportive footwear or orthotics to relieve pressure on the foot. In severe cases, immobilization with a cast or walking boot may be necessary. A podiatrist can conduct a thorough evaluation, using imaging studies, and recommend appropriate treatments to promote healing and prevent further injury. Early intervention can speed up recovery and prevent long-term complications. If you suspect a metatarsal stress fracture or experience persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.