The purpose of the following is to provide the reader with information regarding treatment of minor medical issues. The purpose is not to provide medical advice and is not meant to circumvent the need for diagnosis and treatment of medical problems by trained medical professionals. Many more serious medical problems may only be capable of diagnosis by these trained professionals.

Heel, Foot, and Ankle

Plantar Fasciitis (tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes)

Cause: Plantar fasciitis is the result of straining the ligament that supports the arch of your foot. This is mostly seen in athletes who are on their feet often. Since many sports require athletes to stand for extended periods of time, most athletes are susceptible to plantar fasciitis.

Prevention: Develop a daily stretching and strength training routine. Talk to an expert to determine if you are wearing the correct type of shoes. If you have had plantar fasciitis in the past, they may suggest that you wear orthotics.

Treatment: Rest and apply an ice pack regularly. Take anti-inflammatory medicine such as Advil, Aleve, or Motrin to reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle and check with your doctor before taking any new medications. A splint can be used to prevent further injury. If the pain does not cease, seek medical attention immediately.

Imaging: Radiographs may be done to look for any associated osseous changes (plantar spur). MRI may be done to evaluate for any soft tissue injury.

Ankle Sprain (ligament injury)

Cause: Ankle sprains occur when your foot is planted and you make a quick movement. This causes the ligaments in the ankle to tear. Ankle sprains are commonly seen in athletes who participate in sports such as basketball, tennis, and racquetball.

Prevention: Develop a daily stretching and strengthening routine for your ankles. Talk to an expert to determine if you are wearing the correct type of shoes. Always wear snug, supportive shoes when participating in active sports.

Treatment: Use compression while applying an ice pack to the injured area. Elevate the affected area as often as possible. Take anti-inflammatory medicine such as Advil, Aleve, or Motrin to reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle and check with your doctor before taking any new medications. Wear a protective brace to avoid further injury to your ankle. See a medical specialist to determine what rehabilitation program is right for you. If the pain does not subside or if you experience other symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Imaging: Radiographs may be done to evaluate for a fracture. MRI may be done to evaluate for any soft tissue injury.

Stress Fracture

Cause: A stress fracture in the foot is caused when an athlete continuously makes sudden changes in direction. This typically is seen in athletes who play sports such as soccer, tennis, and basketball.

Prevention: Develop a daily stretching and strengthening routine for your feet. If you decide to increase the intensity of your training, do so gradually. Talk to an expert to determine if you are wearing the correct type of shoes. Cross-train with a low-impact sport like swimming to reduce the stress on your feet.

Treatment: If you believe you may have a stress fracture, seek medical attention immediately. You most likely will need an x-ray. Typically, the doctor will ask that you wear a cast for one to two months in order to stabilize the foot and prevent further injury. After your cast is removed, see a medical specialist to determine what rehabilitation program is right for you.

Imaging: Radiographs may show the fracture. You sometimes need CT or MRI to show subtle fractures or for further evaluation of a known fracture.

Achilles Tendinopathy (degeneration of the tendon above the heel)

Cause: Achilles tendinopathy is generally an overuse injury caused by repetitive trauma, such as runners pounding against the pavement. It is most often seen in athletes who have had Achilles tendon surgery.

Prevention: Develop a daily stretching and strengthening routine for your feet and ankles. If you decide to increase the intensity of your training, do so gradually. Avoid making any sudden changes to your training surface. Talk to an expert to determine if you are wearing the correct type of shoes.

Treatment: Rest the affected area for at least one to two months. Ice the area regularly while you are resting it. Take anti-inflammatory medicine such as Advil, Aleve, or Motrin to reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle and check with your doctor before taking any new medications. If the pain does not cease, cortisone injections and/or surgery may be needed so contact your doctor immediately.

Imaging: MRI may be done to evaluate for any soft tissue injury.