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Foot & Ankle Sports Injuries

Running, jumping and cutting place heavy demands on the foot and ankle. Sports injuries here can be sudden, like a sprain, or gradual, like a tendon that slowly becomes irritated.

Common injuries

  • Ankle sprains and chronic instability
  • Achilles tendon irritation and tears
  • Plantar fasciitis and other causes of heel pain
  • Stress fractures of the foot
  • Peroneal and other tendon injuries
  • Big toe joint sprains and soreness

The biomechanical picture

Many overuse injuries trace back to how the foot and leg move together: arch height, ankle flexibility, calf tightness, running or walking form, footwear and training load. Treating only the sore spot can leave the underlying cause in place, so evaluation looks at the full lower-extremity picture, often including how you stand and move.

Treatment

  • Activity modification and a structured return-to-sport plan
  • Rehabilitation and strengthening
  • Footwear changes and orthotics when mechanics are contributing
  • Bracing, taping or immobilization for certain injuries
  • Surgery for injuries that do not respond to non-surgical care or that involve significant structural damage

Getting back safely

Returning too soon is a common reason injuries recur. The goal is to restore strength, motion and confidence along with pain relief, so you can return to your sport at the level you want.

What to expect at your visit

A first visit typically includes a review of your symptoms and history, an examination of the foot and ankle (often including how you stand and walk), and imaging such as X-rays when needed. Dr. Ajdari will explain your options, including non-surgical care, so the two of you can choose a plan that fits your goals.

This page is for general education and is not a substitute for an examination and advice from a qualified clinician. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual situation. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.