Lower Extremity Injuries in the Weekend Athlete

A weekend athlete is someone who exercises intensely on days off after being mostly sedentary during the week. This pattern can place sudden stress on feet and ankles. Common injuries include ankle sprains, plantar fascia irritation, Achilles tendon strain, stress fractures, and tendon inflammation. Wearing poor footwear, uneven surfaces, and skipping warm ups can increase risk. Symptoms may involve swelling, stiffness, bruising, or sharp pain during movement. Diagnosis starts with a detailed history of activity and onset of pain, followed by a physical exam. Imaging may be used to evaluate bones, ligaments, and soft tissue. Early attention helps prevent repeat injury and supports safer return to recreational sports. When foot or ankle pain lingers after weekend activity or interferes with daily walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Powering Through Pain in the Achilles Tendon

Athletes who rely on running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction may experience pain in the Achilles tendon, the strong band connecting the calf muscles to the heel. This condition often appears as swelling or thickening along the back of the heel and can feel stiff, tender, or sharp during activity. Common causes include overuse, sudden increases in training intensity, tight calf muscles, or improper footwear. Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest, yet persistent pain can limit performance. A podiatrist begins with a detailed exam and imaging when needed to assess tendon integrity and rule out tears. Treatment may include stretching and strengthening exercises to restore flexibility and support, orthotics or heel lifts to reduce strain, and activity modification. Early intervention can prevent further injury and speed recovery. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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An Overview of Corns and Foot Health

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction on the feet. They often appear as small hardened bumps and may cause pain or tenderness, especially when walking. Common symptoms include discomfort, redness, and sensitivity in the affected area. Corns are often caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, abnormal foot structure, or repetitive motion. Risk factors include high arches, toe deformities, and prolonged standing or walking. There are different types of corns, including hard corns that form on the tops or sides of toes and soft corns that develop between toes where moisture is present. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can safely remove corns, address underlying causes, and recommend proper footwear or custom orthotics. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Dealing With Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle joint stretch or tear. This injury is often caused by sudden twists, falls, uneven surfaces, or sports activities that put stress on the joint. The ankle may look swollen, bruised, or slightly deformed, and in severe cases it may appear unstable or misaligned. Many individuals feel sharp pain at the time of injury, followed by tenderness, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight or walking normally. Up to 70 percent of ankle sprains affect the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle, and repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability if not treated properly. A podiatrist can start by evaluating the ankle, checking the range of motion, and using imaging if needed to rule out fractures. Treatment may include elevation, bracing, targeted exercises, and guidance on safe return to activity. Prompt professional care helps reduce recovery time and prevent long-term complications. If you experience persistent ankle pain or swelling after an injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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