Foot Therapy for Sports Injuries
Whether in practice or in the game, athletes put their bodies through great stress. Some sports demand more from the body than others. However, every sport has an element of inorganic movement or unnatural motion. For example, in softball, a pitcher winds up and flings her body with an incredible amount of dexterity in order to get the most ideal velocity out of her pitches. This motion, incredibly taxing on the body, can cause serious injury.
One of the most common issues of athletic injuries happens in the feet. If it’s a damaging fracture that leaves the athlete sidelined or just a simple turf toe, foot injuries can still be very frustrating and painful. Regardless of the sport, athletes still require use of their feet in some fashion. This is why foot therapy is extremely vital for getting athletes back on the right track to return to the field.
No matter the injury, the best way to speed up the recovery period is to receive physical therapy. Physical therapy has proven to work for millions of people. Professional physical therapists are specifically trained to help people return to proper form from any injury.
During physical therapy, you will go through organized training in order to get back into form. Sometimes training can be quite difficult, especially in the beginning when there is more pain and the foot feels awkward. To alleviate this, you will do basic twisting and stretching exercises in order to get flexibility and foot mobility back up. The therapist will also massage the injured area to activate and relax muscles. Over time you will eventually move up to strengthening exercises, designed specifically so that the injured area is exercised.
Foot therapy for sports is a modern science miracle. Unlike other treatments that may employ the use of fancy chemicals and terminology, physical therapy is an evidence-based practice that offers the same benefits. Due to huge advancements in the knowledge of muscles and joints, doctors can turn catastrophic injuries around so that athletes can return to the game once more.
Causes of Seed Corns
Seed corns, those tiny yet painful annoyances on the feet, may sound inconsequential but can be quite uncomfortable. These small, hardened, and sometimes translucent bumps typically develop on the soles of the feet or in between the toes. They are a form of callus, but unlike the regular calluses that form due to friction or pressure, seed corns have a different origin. The causes of seed corns can vary. They often arise from dry skin, which is more prone to developing these small, central core calluses. Ill-fitting shoes that constantly rub against certain areas of the feet can also be a culprit. Additionally, foot deformities or gait abnormalities can increase pressure on specific spots, leading to seed corn formation. While seed corns may seem minor, they can be quite painful while walking. If you are dealing with these tiny irritations on your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can alleviate the discomfort and prevent them from returning, ensuring your feet remain healthy and pain-free.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Corns and Calluses
A corn is a lesion that forms in the skin of the foot, and it is typically circular in shape, small in size, and thick and rough in texture. A corn generally occurs as a result of repeated pressure on the skin; one example of this is the rubbing of a shoe against the skin. Corns differ from calluses in that their central cores are harder in texture.
A corn is a relatively common condition with a wide variety of treatment options. If a corn becomes overly uncomfortable or painful, consult with your podiatrist; he can determine the best method of treatment that is appropriate for you. Corns may return if the underlying cause of its development is not treated or removed. Avoid removing corns at home, as improper removal may cause infection.
A callus, similar to a corn, is an area of skin that has become thickened due to repeated pressure and rubbing. The rubbing causes the skin to create a layer of protective skin, which is the formed callus. Calluses can differ in size between people, and they can also become painful.
Multiple treatments are available for calluses. At-home treatment and removal should be avoided, as this can potentially lead to infection. Your podiatrist can best determine the cause of your calluses and suggest the treatment most appropriate for you.
Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Causes and Effective Treatment Techniques for Sever’s Disease
Sever's disease, a prevalent but misunderstood condition among growing adolescents, can introduce pain and discomfort in children and young teenagers. Contrary to its name, it's not a disease, but rather a heel disorder. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress from physical activities. Common among active children during growth spurts, Sever's disease typically causes heel pain, particularly during exercise. Getting adequate rest and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief. Long-term management involves adjusting activity levels, incorporating supportive footwear, and considering orthotic inserts. Stretching exercises targeting calf muscles and tendons may help to alleviate pressure. Seeking medical guidance from a podiatrist ensures an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, allowing young athletes to continue their pursuits with minimized discomfort. If your child has heel pain, it is strongly suggested you contact this type of doctor who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Sever's Disease
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis is a common bone disorder that occurs during childhood. The disease is defined as an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. When a child has a growth spurt, his heel bone grows faster than the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in his leg. This disease is a result of overuse. The people who are most likely to be affected by this disease are children who are in a growth spurt, especially boys who are from the ages of 5 to 13 years old. 60% of children with Sever’s disease have both heels involved.
Symptoms of this disease are heel pain that intensifies during running and jumping activities. The pain is typically localized to the posterior part of the heel. Symptoms may be severe, and they can easily interfere with daily activities. Children who play soccer, baseball, and basketball are more likely to develop Sever’s disease.
Your doctor will diagnose your child based on his or her symptoms, x-rays are generally not helpful in diagnosing this disease. Your doctor may examine both heels and ask your child questions about his or her activity level in sports. Your doctor may then use the squeeze test on your child’s heel to see if there is any pain. Nevertheless, some doctors might still use x-rays to rule out any other issues such as fractures, infections, and tumors.
Sever’s disease can be prevented by maintaining good flexibility while your child is growing. Another prevention method is to wear good-quality shoes that have firm support and a shock-absorbent sole. Sever’s disease can be treated by ceasing any activity that causes heel pain. You should apply ice to the injured heel for 20 minutes 3 times a day. Additionally, orthotics should be used for children who have high arches, flat feet, or bowed legs.
If you suspect your child has Sever’s disease, you should make an appointment with your podiatrist to have his or her foot examined. Your doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve pain. In more severe cases, your child may need a cast to rest his or her heel. Fortunately, Sever’s disease does not cause long-term foot problems. After treatment, your child should start to feel better within two weeks to two months.
Causes of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are common injuries that can occur during physical activities or even simple daily movements. The most prevalent symptom of an ankle sprain is pain, which is often accompanied by swelling and bruising around the affected area. The severity of the sprain can vary, ranging from mild stretching of the ligaments to complete tears. Causes of ankle sprains often involve rolling or twisting the foot beyond its normal range of motion, leading to ligament damage. Factors such as uneven surfaces, improper footwear, and weak ankle muscles can contribute to the risk of sprains. Immediate treatment involves rest, compression, and elevation to reduce inflammation. As the injury heals, performing ankle exercises and gradually returning to normal activities can aid in strengthening the ankle and preventing future sprains. If you have an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you seek prompt medical attention from a podiatrist to ensure a proper diagnosis and a well-tailored treatment plan for a swift recovery.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ankle ligament gets overly stretched. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that bind and support the bones and other structures that make up the ankle. In more severe ankle sprains, the ligament(s) tear—either partially or completely—and there may be an audible popping noise at the moment of injury.
Ankle sprains are quite common and can occur when the ankle rolls outwardly (eversion) or inwardly (inversion), causing the ligament(s) to stretch beyond normal limits, or even tear. Falls, twists, or blows to the ankle during sports or other activities can cause this injury, as well as wearing improper footwear, running on uneven surfaces, or having weak ankles.
Depending on the injury’s severity, an ankle sprain will be classified as Grade I, Grade II, or Grade III. Grade I sprains involve ligament(s) being overly stretched but not torn, with symptoms of mild pain, swelling, and ankle instability. There may also be some difficulty bearing weight. A Grade II sprain usually involves a partial tear of the ligament which brings more intensity in these symptoms, along with possible bruising. With a Grade III sprain, the ligament is completely torn, the symptoms are severe, and it may not be possible to put weight on the affected foot at all.
To diagnose and grade an ankle sprain, a podiatrist will perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness and range of motion in the ankle. For more severe sprains, X-rays or other imaging studies may be necessary.
It is vitally important to have an ankle sprain treated properly as improper healing often leads to future ankle sprains and possibly even chronic ankle stability. Treatment for an ankle sprain will vary, depending on its severity, and may include the RICE method (Rest/Ice/Compression/Elevation), physical therapy, bracing, medications, and possibly even surgery to repair a torn ligament. Rehabilitation is very important for the sprain to heal properly and to restore functionality.
Stay Safe While Being Active This Summer
For many, summertime means time to get out and get active. Before trying a new sport or physical activity, be sure to properly stretch and gradually increase intensity to prevent injuries.
If you need treatment for an injury or would like to learn about injury prevention, schedule an appointment.
Treatment Methods for a Broken Toe
A broken toe can be painful. Despite the discomfort it can cause, it is generally not a serious injury. A broken toe can happen from stubbing it into a piece of furniture, or from dropping a heavy object on it. Bruising, swelling, and the inability to walk are common symptoms that can be experienced with a broken toe. A severely broken toe may have a protruding bone, and surgery may be required to align it properly. The buddy taping method is effective in treating toes that are mildly fractured. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This treatment method is generally successful in providing the necessary stability as the healing process occurs. Mild relief may be found if the foot is frequently elevated, which may help to reduce some of the swelling. If you have fractured your toe, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this condition.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
