Foot Injuries and Disorders

Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the back of the leg. With overuse of the tendon, it can often become inflamed and stiff. Common in young athletes, Achilles tendonitis usually occurs after a runner's calf muscle becomes tighter and prevents normal functioning of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon will often become strained and inflamed. Symptoms for acute inflammation of the Achilles tendon are pain of the tendon during exercise. Achilles pain will gradually increase with prolonged exercise but will be resolved with rest. As soon as pain is felt, excessive use of the tendon must stop. If usage continues despite pain, a partial rupture of the tendon may occur. Treatment of Achilles tendonitis includes antiinflammatory drugs two to three times a day. In addition, a heel pad should be used to take the strain off the tendon. Last, if pain does not subside, a sports rehabilitation professional should be seen.

Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries of the lower extremities. They result from a tearing or stretching of ligaments that surround the ankle. Usually, this occurs when the ankle is forced into a position that is not normally encountered. The most frequent type of sprain occurs when the foot inverts and rolls, when weight is applied to the ankle on an uneven surface. Situations like this usually result in a sprain to the lateral portion of the ankle. Occasionally, patients report hearing a “snapping” sound which is then followed by swelling of the ankle. There are three categories of sprains: Grade I—stretch and/or minor tear of the ligament without laxity (loosening), Grade II—tear of ligament plus some laxity, and Grade III—complete tear of the affected ligament (very loose). The most important way to treat a sprain is to rest the ankle, treat it with ice, and compress and elevate the ankle. To prevent ankle sprains, one should avoid uneven terrain and wear shoes that are firmer which will provide more support.

Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a skin infection in the foot caused by a fungus called Trichophyton. When the feet, or other areas of the body, stay moist, warm, and irritated, this fungus can thrive and infect the upper layer of the skin. The fungus usually infects between the toes or the arch of the foot. The foot is vulnerable to this fungus because shoes create a warm, dark, humid place for the fungus to grow. Symptoms of athlete's foot include dry skin, itching, burning, pain, swelling, and blisters. Athlete's foot usually arises in places where bare feet come in contact with moist surfaces, such as swimming pool locker rooms and showers. Preventative measures include avoid walking barefoot; use shower shoes; and reduce perspiration by using talcum powder, wear light and airy shoes, and wear [Page 682]socks that keep your feet dry, and change them frequently if you perspire heavily. Antifungal drugs are often prescribed to treat athlete's foot. A physician should be consulted if improvement is not seen after two weeks of improved self-care and hygiene.

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