Summer is in full effect. People are outside hiking, playing sports, hitting the beach, and enjoying the sun. All this activity is fun, but it can put a lot of stress and strain on your feet and ankles. Let’s review the most common summer injuries, so you know what to look for.
Heel Spur
Spurs are outgrowths of bone. They most commonly occur in the heel and usually develop in areas subjected to constant pressure. Repeated running on hard surfaces and wearing footwear that does not correctly support the arch can put extra stress on the heel, leading to the development of heel spurs.
Sprained Ankle
When the ankle bones twist with too much force, the ligaments surrounding the outside of the bones may tear. If the sprain is not correctly diagnosed and treated, it can cause permanent, lasting ankle trouble. It can cause moderate to severe pain, making it difficult to stand or walk.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse, stress, injury, or degeneration. It can cause intense lower-leg pain or a chronic dull ache in the back of the lower leg. An increase in exercise intensity or duration can also lead to this injury.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by heel pain. When the plantar fascia, which is the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot between the heel and the toes, is inflamed. Usually, this occurs due to stress from intense running or poor shoe support.
Stress Fracture
Stress fractures are small fissures or cracks in the surface of the bone and usually occur in the forefoot or the area from the mid-foot extending to the toes. Stress fractures are quite common for athletes or anyone who engages in rigorous sports involving a lot of running. It can often cause pain and swelling in the lower leg and should be checked by a specialist.
Contact a specialist immediately if you find an issue or are experiencing any pain or discomfort. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and their staff will help diagnose and treat your foot or ankle. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York, for more tips and expert advice. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.