Sports Medicine Specialist

What is sports medicine?

Sports medicine refers to the prevention, treatment, and management athletes and active individuals receive to ensure they can continue enjoying the activities they love without injury. The feet and ankles serve as the body’s foundation. By addressing injuries or mechanical issues early on, sports medicine can help prevent long-term damage in the future.

What does sports medicine treat?

The experienced foot and ankle team at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic provide comprehensive care for sports injuries, including:

Heel pain

Heel pain is a common complaint in athletes and active individuals, particularly runners. Plantar fasciitis, which affects the band of tissue that stretches from the toes to the heel, is a common cause of heel pain in athletes of all ages. Heel pain can feel dull, sharp, or sore. It may come and go or worsen right after you wake up in the morning.

Stress fractures

A stress fracture is a bone break that occurs from repeated pressure. Stress fractures in the small bones of the feet are prevalent in runners, basketball players, soccer players, and other individuals who participate in activities that put stress on the feet.

Ankle sprain

An ankle sprain can occur when the tendons and ligaments that support the ankle stretch too far. That can lead to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. While an ankle sprain might not seem like a serious sports injury, without treatment it can increase your risk of future sprains.

Achilles Tendinitis/Rupture

Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes and the "Weekend Warrior" population. Injury to the Achilles tendon can occur acutely or from minor injuries over time. Neglecting injuries can lead to tearing or even rupture of the Achilles tendon.

Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. Since active individuals often experience damage to the toenails, the condition is common in athletes, particularly those wearing ill-fitting footwear.

What treatments are included in sports medicine?

How Dr. Nelson addresses your sports injury depends on the type, severity, and location of your condition. Common treatments for sports injuries include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.)
• Bandaging, bracing, or casting
• Footwear modifications
• Surgery
• Orthotics

Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that correct imbalances in your feet. Whether you have flat feet or high arches, custom orthotics can improve your foot mechanics to prevent injuries.

To learn more about sports medicine in podiatry, call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic or schedule an appointment online now.