Sports Injuries

What are the most common foot and ankle injuries in sports?

Some of the most common sports injuries that affect your feet and ankles include:

• Sprains
• Stress fractures 
• Achilles tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis

If you suspect you’ve injured your foot or ankle, it’s best to see your podiatrist at Southwest Foot & Ankle as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

What are the most common foot and ankle injuries in sports?

To reduce your risk of injury during sports, build in a few minutes to warm up properly before engaging in physical activity. The team recommends stretching and strengthening exercises to improve your flexibility and stability. They can customize other exercises to suit your specific needs and match the biomechanics involved in your sport.

You’ll also want to prioritize proper footwear. Wear shoes made specifically for your sport (like cleats for field games or pickleball shoes for the court), and replace them regularly to avoid worn-out cushioning and soles.

Pay attention to your technique, too. Poor form, like improper landing techniques during jumps, can strain your feet and ankles. Keep in mind that gradually increasing the intensity of your activity rather than going all in all at once is the best strategy to avoid overuse injuries and protect your feet and ankles.

How are foot and ankle sports injuries treated?

Your doctor starts by discussing your health history, reviewing your medical background, and carefully diagnosing your specific injury. Next, he maps a treatment course to get you back in the game as soon as possible. 

Your treatment may include: 

• Physical therapy to help you manage pain and improve range of motion 
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Multiwave locked system (MLS®) laser therapy to reduce pain and stimulate your body’s natural healing process
• A brace, boot, cast, or splint, depending on the type and severity of your injury
• Corticosteroid injections to help you bear the pain 

Custom orthotics are also an option to protect your ankle or foot as you regain mobility. If your injury is especially severe and requires surgery, your treatment may take place at Southwest Foot & Ankles partner facilities, St. George Surgical Center, or Dixie Regional Medical Center.

To meet with a skilled and compassionate podiatrist to evaluate and treat a sports injury to your foot or ankle, call to make an appointment or use the online scheduling option at your convenience.