No matter what sport or physical activity you enjoy, dealing with a foot or ankle injury can bring your active lifestyle to a halt, leaving you in pain and sidelined. But it doesn’t have to.
Today I’ll be discussing the 9 of the most common foot and ankle injuries athletes experience including sudden, acute issues to chronic, overuse conditions.
Acute Sports Injuries of the Foot and Ankle
First, let's talk about acute injuries which can happen suddenly and require immediate attention.
- ankle sprains
- fractures
- Achilles tendon rupture
Ankle Sprains and Fractures
Some of the most common acute injuries we see are ankle sprains and fractures. They occur frequently in sports such as basketball, soccer, and pickleball. That’s because these sports require a great deal of twisting motion. While many people think—it’s just a sprain—and then don’t do anything about it—this is a mistake. First, it could be broken. Just because you can walk on a sprain, doesn’t mean it’s not fractured.
And even if it isn’t broken, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do anything about it. An improperly treated ankle sprain can lead to more serious complications so it’s important to get it evaluated.
Our office offers same-day treatment for urgent cases during the week, including on-site X-ray services to quickly determine if there’s a break or fracture. Proper diagnosis and timely intervention are key to preventing long-term problems. For example, untreated or improperly managed ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability and persistent pain.
Before you get to a podiatrist, I recommend using the RICE protocol—that includes rest, icing for 20 mins on, 20 mins off, using an elastic strap to control swelling, and keeping the ankle elevated above your heart. Anti-inflammatory medication can also help with the pain and swelling as long as your provider recommends it. Learn more about treatment of ankle sprains here!
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Another acute injury we see at the office is an Achilles tendon rupture. These occur when the Achilles tendon is stretched beyond its capacity. While common in athletes like basketball and soccer players who play frequently, it can also occur in weekend warriors who only play on occasion.
Signs and symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture are sudden pain, a popping or snapping sensation, swelling on the back of the heel or calf, and difficulty walking. Again, use the RICE protocol immediately and then try to see a podiatrist the same day. Learn more about treatment and prevention of Achilles tendon rupture here!
Overuse Sports Injuries of the Foot and Ankle
Overuse injuries are also common among athletes, especially those who increase their training schedules too rapidly, start new sports without adequate preparation, or wear the wrong footwear.
Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis
At our clinic, we often see conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. In addition to the risk factors I’ve just described, these injuries are most common in athletes who have poor foot mechanics, tight calf muscles and are overweight. Hill running or stair climbing can also cause Achilles tendonitis.
Stress Fractures
We also encounter athletes with stress fractures. These are tiny, hairline cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force that can occur in the lower legs and foot. Additional risks for this condition include runners who overstride and women athletes who are underweight.
Overuse injuries can cause significant pain and limit your ability to train or compete, but with the right treatment, recovery is possible.
Ball of Foot Pain in Sports
Foot pain isn't just limited to the heel or arch. Pain in the ball of the foot is also common in athletes, resulting from conditions such as Morton’s neuroma, metatarsalgia, sesamoiditis, and turf toe. These issues arise due to the repetitive stress placed on the feet during activities like running, ballet, baseball, and football.
Morton’s neuroma causes pain or numbness between the 3rd and 4th toes. It’s the most frequent cause of ball of foot pain. While participating in sports is a main cause, wearing tight, pointy shoes and having an abnormal foot structure like flat feet can also put you more at risk.
Chronic ankle instability is another issue many athletes face. Repeated ankle sprains or inadequate healing from a previous injury can weaken the ligaments and lead to a persistent feeling of the ankle “giving way.” Addressing this condition early with proper treatment and rehabilitation is crucial to restoring stability and avoiding further damage.
Toenail Problems in Athletes
Finally, toenail problems are frequent in athletes who wear shoes or boots that are too tight or too loose. Ingrown toenails, black toenails, distorted toenails, and fungal toenails often plague runners, hikers, and other athletes. Learn more below.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Lake City, we are dedicated to helping you overcome these and other sports-related foot and ankle injuries. We use the latest techniques and therapies to ensure you receive the best possible care, from diagnosis to recovery. We’re here to help you heal effectively, regain strength, and return to the active lifestyle you love.
