Sports Medicine
At The Podiatry Group of South Texas, we do more than just treat sports injuries affecting the foot and ankle. We work with our athlete patients – whether professional, amateur, or of the weekend warrior variety – to help you safely excel at the activities you enjoy.
Common sports-related foot injuries include:
Sprained Ankle
Sprained Ankle Treatment in South Texas
When the ankle rolls or twists, it can stretch or tear the connective tissue (ligaments) that connect bones and joints. This is what is commonly called a sprained ankle.
Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries. Any sport that involves jumping increases your risk of an ankle sprain, although walking on slippery or uneven surfaces can make a sprain more likely as well.
It is usually obvious when you’ve sprained an ankle. You may feel pain and the area can be tender to the touch. Swelling is common. In the majority of cases, it is the outside of the ankle that is affected in an ankle sprain.
Doctors classify ankle sprains into three categories, with first-degree sprains being the least severe and third-degree sprains the most severe – usually indicating the entire ligament is torn, which significantly compromises your ankle stability. Fractures may also occur with an ankle sprain.
If self-care with the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) doesn’t alleviate your symptoms, you should make an appointment with your podiatrist, who may recommend compression or immobilization with a bandage, taping, splint, or even a cast to hold the bones of the ankle in the proper position to aid healing. Ankle sprains can take a while to heal – up to 2 months in many cases. If a ligament is torn, surgery may be required
Once you suffer an ankle sprain, you are more likely to repeat the injury. This is because ankle sprains result in instability at the ankle, making you more susceptible to future injury as well as compromising your athletic performance.
Improve Your Sports Performance
We can help you improve your athletic performance and fitness plus help you prevent injuries during play.
Proper stretching and strengthening exercises for your particular activity is crucial. In general, it is important to condition your body in preparation to play your sport. Get yourself in shape to play; don't do the reverse. If you play a sport in order to get into shape, you are more likely to overexert and injure yourself.
Ask your podiatrist about appropriate conditioning and stability exercises to help you avoid foot and ankle injuries during your favorite activities. For example, strengthening the muscles around an ankle can help protect you from future injury in the area after you’ve sustained an ankle sprain.
Contact Our Sports Medicine Podiatrists Today!
Whether you’re a professional athlete or weekend warrior, if you’ve suffered a foot or ankle injury, choose the sports medicine podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas for the right kind of care. Call the location nearest you today to schedule your appointment or use our convenient appointment request form.
