Foot Conditions
There are 26 bones in the foot stabilized by ligaments. Muscles and tendons move the foot through a range of motion – incredible, when you consider that an average person’s feet log an average of 1000 miles a year, and support 1 1/2 times the person’s body weight doing it. No wonder you feel pain if something is wrong.
Ankle Sprain - This is probably the most common sports injury. A strong, jarring fall or jump causes the ankle to turn – usually inward – and there is a stretching or a tearing of the ligaments involved.
Achilles tendon injury - The Achilles is the strongest and largest tendon connecting the heel to the muscles in the lower leg. Anything that tightens those lower calf muscles, like running and basketball, can potentially cause an Achilles tendon strain (Achilles tendinitis) or even a rupture.
Fractures - Fractured means broken. A bone may be completely fractured or partially fractured. Sometimes this is caused by trauma, or as a result of osteoporosis. Fractures can even occur with overuse, such as an athlete’s stress fracture.
Plantar Fasciitis is pain and inflammation of the tough, fibrous band of tissue that connects the heel to the base of the toes. It is definitely an “overdoing it” kind of injury, one that occurs especially to those who are on their feet a great deal of the day. It requires treatment and rest in order not to become chronic.
Shin splints are a painful condition of the front of the shin bone, and can be caused by a change in running surfaces, over-doing exercise, or even poorly-fitting athletic shoes.
