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Causes of Foot and Ankle Injuries in Skaters

Skating is a beloved activity for many, but foot and ankle injuries can hinder both enjoyment and performance. Improperly fitted skates often lead to corns, calluses, bunions, and bunionettes, causing discomfort and negatively affecting skating ability. Additionally, ankle pain and weakness are prevalent among skaters, making them susceptible to sprains and overuse injuries like Achilles tendonitis. Skaters with biomechanical imbalances, such as flat feet or high arches, are at further risk of developing plantar fasciitis and heel pain. One way to avoid these issues involves wearing properly fitting footwear and attentive foot care. Investing in well-fitted skates and footwear tailored to individual foot needs is essential. Plus, seeking prompt treatment for persistent foot pain from a podiatrist ensures optimal skating performance and long-term foot health. By taking proactive measures to prevent injury, skaters can continue enjoying their favorite activity without discomfort or limitations. If you have skating-related foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Education to Become a Podiatrist
There are fifty-two bones in the feet which constitute approximately one quarter of the bones in the body. People who choose to pursue a career in podiatric medicine will learn how to treat disorders, injuries, and diseases of the feet. Some of these conditions can include hammertoes, bunions, heel spurs, and foot ulcers. The education generally consists of four years of study at a podiatric medical school, preceded by earning a bachelor's degree. A residency is then begun which can last two to four years. People who have become a DPM, which is an abbreviation for doctor of podiatric medicine, can choose to work in a private practice, or treat patients in a hospital environment. If you are contemplating a career in podiatry, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is the right career choice for you.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Two Types of Broken Toes
Having an X-ray performed is a common method of determining if a toe has been broken. When the toe is stubbed or if a heavy object has dropped on it, a traumatic fracture can occur. The symptoms that may accompany this type of broken toe can include consistent pain, bruising, and the affected toe may appear red. A stress fracture can develop gradually, and this generally happens as a result of repeated stress on and surrounding the bone. Runners can develop stress fractures of the toe. If this occurs, it is beneficial to refrain from this type of activity until the healing process is fully completed. An effective method for treating a broken toe is known as buddy taping. This is accomplished by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it to provide adequate stability as the healing process occurs. If you have broken your toe, please speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat broken toes.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Growing Pains That Should Not Be Ignored

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension from the Achilles tendon. Symptoms include heel pain during or after physical activity, limping, swelling, tenderness at the back of the heel, and stiffness in the foot upon waking. The heel may appear slightly red or swollen and often feels sore when squeezed. Sever's disease usually affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 during growth spurts. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical examination and a review of activity levels and symptoms. Imaging is rarely needed but may be used to rule out other issues. Treatment options include stretching exercises, heel lifts, supportive footwear, and temporary activity modification. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to manage symptoms and promote proper healing.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
