Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are quite common and can occur due to various reasons, such as sports activities, accidents, or everyday activities. These injuries can range from mild sprains to more severe fractures. Here are some common foot and ankle injuries:

• Sprained Ankle - A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn. This can happen due to an awkward twist or turn of the foot, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking.
• Achilles Tendonitis - The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of this tendon and often results from overuse or repetitive strain. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the ankle.
• Plantar Fasciitis - Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It commonly causes heel pain, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
• Stress Fracture - A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. It frequently occurs in the metatarsal bones of the foot and causes pain, tenderness, and swelling.
• Ankle Fracture - An ankle fracture refers to a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. It can occur from a sudden injury, such as a fall or a direct blow to the ankle. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight.
• Turf Toe - Turf toe is a sprain of the ligaments around the base of the big toe joint. It is often caused by hyperextension of the big toe, such as during sports activities. It leads to pain, swelling, and limited movement of the toe.
• Bunions - A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It develops when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, causing the joint to stick out. Bunions can be painful and may cause difficulties with footwear.
• Morton's Neuroma - Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the nerves between the toes, commonly between the third and fourth toes. It causes a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot and may feel like you're standing on a pebble.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a foot or ankle injury. Treatment options may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), pain medication, physical therapy, immobilisation with braces or casts, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. Dr. Rajesh Malhotra provides an accurate diagnosis and recommends appropriate treatment based on the specific injury.