Every New Year, making resolutions is usually on most of our minds. Especially in 2021, it seems we are all looking for what can make this year be better than the last one! According to surveys, some of the top resolutions for this year are get out of debt, travel more, meet new people, and get a new job. It is no surprise that the top resolution for 2021 is to exercise more and get in shape! A common motto for working out is, “No Pain, No Gain!” While it is definitely a good resolution to exercise more, doing too much too soon can lead to injuries, especially to your feet and ankles! Once an injury occurs, this can sabotage your fitness goals. Here are some of the common foot conditions to watch out for when trying to keep your New Year’s Resolutions!
Ankle Sprains– Sprained ankles are one of the most common sports injuries. Ankle sprains are caused by an unnatural twisting or force on the ankle bones of the foot, which may result in excessive stretching or tearing of one or more ligaments on the ankle. Primary symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain following a twist or injury, swelling, and bruising of the foot and ankle area. Proper treatment and rehabilitation are crucial to ensure adequate healing. If proper treatment isn’t obtained, you risk further damage to the tendons, longer healing time, or possibly even surgery. To prevent ankle sprains, try to maintain strength, balance, and flexibility in the foot and ankle through exercising, stretching, and wearing well-fitted shoes.
Stress Fractures- A stress fracture may feel like an ankle sprain at first, but you may notice some additional symptoms such as swelling without bruising, and pain even during normal activities or when the area is touched. These fractures usually occur in the bones of the forefoot extending from the toes to the middle of the foot. Stress fractures are like tiny cracks in the bone surface. They can happen with sudden increases in exercise (such as running or walking for longer distances or times), improper training techniques, or a change in surfaces. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact Idaho Foot & Ankle Center for an evaluation.
Achilles Tendonitis- The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body and can withstand forces of 1,000 pounds or more. Achilles Tendonitis often begins with mild pain after exercise or running that gradually worsens. Other symptoms include recurring localized pain along the tendon, morning tenderness, sluggishness, swelling, and stiffness that generally diminishes as the tendon warms up. If left untreated, it can result in a ruptured tendon which requires surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation. Seeking treatment can ensure the proper diagnosis and minimize the risk of further injury.
Heel Pain- Heel pain is a common overuse injury. If you have heel pain that lasts more than a day or two, or seems to worsen when you stand after sitting, you may have plantar fasciitis. This is the term commonly used to refer to heel and arch pain traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. More specifically, plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue, called plantar fascia, that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Early treatment is recommended, as heel pain can usually be resolved with conservative measures. Delaying treatment can increase the severity of the injury and take much longer to be resolved.
If you are experiencing any pain, swelling, or other issues, contact Idaho Foot and Ankle Center for an appointment. Dr. Kylin Kovac and Dr. Jed Erickson are specially trained in conditions of the feet and ankles. They can help find the right diagnosis and the right treatment plan to get you back on your feet as soon as possible. Same day appointments are available, and they even have X-Rays right in the office! Receiving prompt and proper treatment can help you avoid complications and slower healing times. Dr. Kovac and Dr. Erickson are qualified and ready to help you start your journey on the path to recovery.
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