Our Services / Sport Injuries

What factors increase the risk of sports injuries?

Anyone who plays sports or participates in other physical activities can experience a sports injury, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being under the age of 18
• Trying a new type of exercise
• Failing to warm up properly
• Playing contact sports

You’re also more likely to experience a sports injury if you don’t wear the necessary safety equipment.

What types of sports injuries do podiatrists treat?

At Columbus Foot & Ankle, P.C., the team treats various injuries that affect the feet and ankles, including:

• Sprains
• Strains
• Swollen muscles
• Achilles tendon injuries
• Fractures

You might also benefit from treatment if you fall and dislocate your ankle joint.

How does a podiatrist diagnose sports injuries?

To diagnose a sports injury, your provider at Columbus Foot & Ankle, P.C. reviews your medical records and asks about the injury, including when it occurred, the symptoms you’re experiencing, and if you’ve tried any at-home treatments. 

Next, your provider conducts a complete podiatry exam. They carefully examine your feet, heels, ankles, and toes, looking for redness, bruising, or swelling. Your provider also gently presses on your feet to pinpoint areas of sensitivity and has you perform a series of tests that assess your muscle strength, reflexes, and range of motion.

If your provider thinks you have a fracture or a dislocated joint, they also order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI.

What are the treatment options for sports injuries?

At Columbus Foot & Ankle, P.C., the team treats sports injuries using conservative and minimally invasive treatments. Your provider might recommend Hako-Med electrotherapy if you have an overuse injury, like Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. Hako-Med uses targeted bio-electrical currents to reduce inflammation and encourage your body’s healing process.

Other treatments that the team at Columbus Foot & Ankle, P.C. might recommend include:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation
• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics
• Shoe inserts or heel pads

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and enhance your mobility, so you can return to competition.

Can sports injuries be prevented?

There’s no way to avoid sports injuries entirely, but there are things you can do to keep your bones, joints, and soft tissues healthy. The Columbus Foot & Ankle team, P.C., recommends using the proper technique, warming up before jumping into a new activity, and wearing the appropriate equipment. It’s also important to take it easy, especially when trying out new activities.

To learn more about the treatment options for sports injuries, make an appointment at Columbus Foot & Ankle, P.C., by calling the office or booking online today.