Our ankles and feet are an intricate network of muscles, joints, bones, cartilage, and ligaments that hold our entire body weight and take us to places while providing a stable and reliable platform. Given the complexity of the job of our feet and ankle, they are highly susceptible to injuries.
Sometimes these injuries are minor and can be easily treated with rest and physical therapy. While other times, the injuries of the foot and ankle need care from an orthopedic doctor or podiatrist.
Let’s talk about some common foot and ankle injuries and where you can go to seek comprehensive care for these injuries in Kingsport, TN.
Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is a common ankle injury in which the ankle ligament (a tissue that connects your ankle bones and supports your ankle) is stretched too far or torn after a fall, ankle roll, or twist. An ankle sprain can happen during sporting events as well as everyday activities.
Based on how much damage to the ligament has occurred, ankle sprain has three types: grade 1 (mild), grade 2(moderate), and grade 3 (severe). Based on the grade of ankle sprain, it can be treated with PRICE (protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation), medications, physical therapy, and rarely surgery.
Achilles Tendonitis or Tear
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon of your body that connects your two primary calf muscles to the bone in the heel. This tendon is susceptible to inflammation (called tendonitis) due to overuse.
People suffering from Achilles tendonitis are more prone to Achilles tendon tears or rupture. Achilles tendon tear can also happen due to sudden trauma such as falling from a height, stepping into a hole, etc. The treatment for Achilles tendonitis or tear depends on the severity of your injury, your activity level, and your age.
Plantar Fasciitis
This is the inflammation of the plantar fascia – a rubber band-like ligament that stretches from heels to the toes and supports the arch of your foot. It absorbs the pressure and bears your weight.
Plantar fasciitis results in pain on the bottom of the heel, pain in the arch of the foot, swollen heel, etc. Over 90% of cases of plantar fasciitis get better with at-home treatments and nonsurgical treatments like medication, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, etc. Occasionally, if none of the solutions work, surgery may be considered.
Stress Fracture of the Foot
A sudden fall, twist, or direct impact on the foot from heavy weight can cause foot bones to fracture. The foot fractures can range from a tiny crack in the bone to a break that pierces the skin. Stress fracture of the foot results in considerable pain that become worse when you put weight on your fractured foot.
The treatment for a broken foot varies depending on the severity of your injury and the bone which has been broken. Common treatments include pain medications, surgery, and physical therapy.
Foot and Ankle Injury Treatment in Kingsport, TN
If you think you’ve sustained a foot and ankle injury and seek a lasting solution, look no further than Associated Orthopaedics. We have a team of highly trained and experienced orthopedists and podiatrists that can diagnose your foot and ankle injury or condition and offer comprehensive treatment.
If you would like to make an appointment with our orthopedic surgeons, call us today at (423) 245-3161 or request an appointment online by filling out this form.
