Common Foot Injuries in Golf and How to Prevent Them

Golf may seem low impact, but the repetitive motions and long hours on your feet can lead to several foot injuries. Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain from inflammation of the tissue supporting the arch, while metatarsalgia leads to pain in the ball of the foot from excessive pressure during swings. Additionally, tendonitis can develop from overuse of the tendons that stabilize the foot and ankle, and stress fractures may occur from repetitive strain on the bones. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of your pain, recommend custom orthotics, and create a treatment plan to restore comfort and mobility. If foot pain is affecting your golf game, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide expert care and effective recovery solutions.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Reasons Your Feet May Be Swollen

Swollen feet are a common problem that can affect people of all ages. The reasons may range from temporary fluid buildup in hot weather or pregnancy to more serious health concerns that involve circulation or injury. The medical term for swelling caused by trapped fluid is edema. It often appears in the feet and ankles, causing stretched skin and dimpling when pressed. Injuries like ankle sprains can also lead to sudden swelling, restricting mobility, and causing pain. In pregnancy, swelling may occur gradually, but if it becomes severe and sudden, it could signal preeclampsia, a condition that requires immediate medical care. Prolonged standing or wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also contribute to swelling of the feet. A podiatrist can carefully evaluate the feet to determine the underlying cause and provide treatment to protect long-term foot health. If you suffer from excessive or unusual swelling in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Stephen Boykins, DPM of SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Finding Relief From Common Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain can come from many sources, but simple steps often make a difference. Sore heels are frequently caused by plantar fasciitis, which may improve with calf stretching, wearing supportive shoes, and massage. Bunions, a misalignment of the big toe joint, can be eased by wearing wide shoes, using protective padding, or custom orthotics to reduce pressure. Ball of foot pain, often linked to metatarsalgia, may respond to cushioned insoles and activity modification. For toe deformities such as hammertoes, gentle stretching and shoes with extra depth can help reduce irritation. While these measures often bring relief, lingering pain should not be ignored, as untreated problems may worsen over time. If you continue to struggle with foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

How to Increase Toe Point in Dancing

Improving toe point is essential for dancers seeking strength, flexibility, and graceful lines. Effective toe stretches help enhance performance and reduce injury risk. The piano toe stretch involves sitting and gently lifting and lowering each toe like playing piano keys to improve control. A resistance stretch with a hair elastic builds strength by looping it around the toes and pressing outward. Additionally, the standing toe press strengthens arches by rising onto the toes and holding the position. Practicing these toe stretches regularly enhances stability and flexibility. A podiatrist can assess foot health, address injuries, and recommend personalized exercises. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional ways to stretch your toes.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Stephen Boykins, DPM from SoCal Podiatry, P.C.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Downey and Moreno Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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