What are common sports injuries?
The team at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico offers comprehensive care for a variety of sports injuries that affect your feet and ankles including:
Sprains
Sprains describe a stretching or tearing of a ligament, the fibrous band of tissue that connects the ends of two bones to support your joints. This condition often occurs when your ankle rolls inward or outward suddenly.
Strains
Strains are the result of repetitive movements of your muscles or tendons required by many sports. Strains can cause inflammation, cramping, and pain that limits your ability to stay active.
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is a painful condition that occurs when you stretch your Achilles tendon too far. This tendon is the largest in your body that connects your leg to your foot, and overusing it can lead to strains and tears in the tissue.
Running injuries
A number of running injuries can affect the health and function of your feet and ankles. Some of the most common running injuries include:
- Arch pain
- Pulled hamstring
- Shin splints
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinitis
- Hip stress fractures
These injuries can occur from repetitive use of the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that make it possible for you to run.
How are sports injuries diagnosed?
The experts at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico are skilled in diagnosing a variety of sports injuries. During your evaluation, your provider takes time to understand your personal and family medical history, your usual activities, and the type of sports you play.
To confirm your diagnosis, the podiatry team offers on-site diagnostic testing, including ultrasounds and digital X-rays. These imaging tests can identify soft tissue tears, bone spurs, and other conditions that can cause unexplained pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
How are sports injuries treated?
A number of treatments are available for sports-related foot and ankle injuries. Your Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico provider customizes your treatment plan to your needs. They focus on relieving your pain and preventing a worsening of your condition.
Treatment options for sports injuries include:
Medications
Medications are available to ease pain and reduce inflammation. Your provider can also deliver medications, such as corticosteroid injections.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help you strengthen your muscles to relieve pain and prevent additional sports injuries. Additionally, your provider can recommend at-home exercises to keep you strong and healthy.
Surgery
When conservative therapies aren’t enough to treat sports injuries, you may be a candidate for surgery. The physicians at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico use a variety of surgical techniques to repair damaged tissue and remove scar tissue to ease symptoms of a sports injury.
To find out more about available treatment options for sports injuries, contact the Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico office nearest you by phone or use the online booking system today.
