Sports Injuries

Sports injuries, such as tendinitis, sprains, and fractures, commonly affect the feet and ankles. Don’t wait to see a podiatrist if you’re sidelined due to a sports injury. At Valley Stream Foot Doctor in Valley Stream, New York, experienced podiatrist Marc Schumann, DPM, provides high-quality care for sports injuries of the feet and ankles, including custom orthotics, physical therapy, and, when necessary, surgery. Call Valley Stream Foot Doctor to schedule sports injury treatment, or book your appointment online today. 

What are podiatric sports injuries?

Podiatric sports injuries affect the ankles, feet, and toes. Anyone can experience them, but they commonly occur in athletes, runners, and other active people. 

Each foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and dozens of tendons, ligaments, and muscles. These tissues support the weight of your body and play a crucial role in walking and running. Although tough, your feet and ankles are susceptible to injury, especially when placed under duress.

If you or your child suffer a sports injury, seek treatment immediately. Prompt care can keep the issue from worsening and prevent you from being sidelined.

What sports injuries does a podiatrist treat?

At Valley Stream Foot Doctor, Dr. Schumann treats various podiatric sports injuries, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Tendinitis
• Shin splints
• Bunions
• Ankle sprains
• Muscle strains
• Ankle instability
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)

You might also benefit from sports injury care if you suffer a stress fracture or another type of broken bone.

How are sports injuries diagnosed?

Dr. Schumann reviews your medical records and asks about your injury, including how it occurred and the type of symptoms you’re experiencing. Provide as much detail as possible, as it helps guide treatment.

Next, Dr. Schumann examines the affected area. For example, if you sprain your ankle, Dr. Schumann checks your skin for redness, swelling, and bruising, gently presses on your ankle to identify sensitive spots, and tests your ankle joint’s range of motion. He also orders diagnostic imaging like X-rays or an ultrasound to check for fractures and soft tissue damage.

After confirming your diagnosis, Dr. Schumann makes personalized treatment recommendations. 

How are podiatric sports injuries treated?

At Valley Stream Foot Doctor, Dr. Schumann takes an integrative and minimally invasive approach to treating podiatric sports injuries. He could suggest:

• Immobilization with a cast or splint to reduce swelling and promote healing
• Injections to relieve pain and inflammation
• Taking prescription anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy to heal and strengthen your foot or ankle
• Custom orthotics

Most people benefit from several conservative treatments, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, surgery might be necessary. For example, if you have torn cartilage or a broken bone, Dr. Schumann might recommend podiatric or orthopedic surgery to make the necessary repairs.

Call Valley Stream Foot Doctor to schedule sports injury treatment, or book your appointment online today.