Pickleball has quickly become a popular sport for all ages, but its quick movements and sudden changes in direction place extra stress on the feet and ankles. Common injuries include ankle sprains from twisting motions, plantar fasciitis from repetitive stress on the heel, and Achilles tendon strains caused by quick starts and stops. Stress fractures may also develop when players increase activity too quickly without proper conditioning. Wearing supportive court shoes designed for lateral movement can help reduce the risk of injury, as can stretching before and after play. Gradually building endurance and strength in the legs and feet is also important for injury prevention. Playing on a suitable surface rather than on overly hard flooring can make a difference as well. If you develop ongoing foot or ankle pain while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for a proper evaluation and appropriate care.
Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries Among Athletes:
- Achilles tendon injuries
- Ankle strains or sprains
- Plantar fasciitis
- Fractures
- Turf toe
- Joint dislocations
- Sever’s disease
- Morton’s neuroma
Symptoms
Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle.
Diagnosis
Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses.
Treatment
Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
