Geelong sports podiatry & injuries
Sports injuries to the feet and lower limbs are common as the foot absorbs a lot of force, which can lead to acute or chronic pain and conditions. At podiatry@belmont, our podiatrists are fully qualified and experienced in dealing with a range of sports related injuries. We use the latest research including gait analysis, to help with our diagnosis.
Common lower leg sports foot injury complaints we treat include:
- Plantar fasciitis/plantar heel pain
Plantar fasciitis is the most common form of foot pain, effecting approximately 10% of the population. Some common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain under the heel, 1st step pain – worse in the morning and when first standing after prolonged sitting and pain decreases as you “warm” up. Our Geelong podiatrists are experienced in diagnosing the condition, identifying the contributing factors and developing a clear treatment plan incorporating a number of treatment options. If you are experiencing heel pain, contact us to make an appointment for assessment and advice. - Achilles tendonosis
Located in the back of your heel, the Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. Pain is often felt in the lower third of the Achilles tendon, approximately 5 centimetres from its insertion into the heel, or where the tendon attaches to the heel. It can be acute or chronic pain and symptoms are aggravated by activity and relieved by rest. Achilles tendonosis is a common sporting injury associated with running, jumping, basketball and netball. It is best if treated early, with treatment including heel lifts, prescribed exercises and in some cases Foot Orthoses may be required. - Ankle sprain
Ankle sprains are common during sport and can cause damage to muscles, ligaments and tendons. Symptoms include pain, localised tenderness, swelling, bruising and limping. Depending on the force of the injury sometimes a small, bony fracture can occur on the site where the ligament was attached. Athletes can also suffer from chronic repeated ankle sprains, which is often the result of poor foot mechanics. - Shin pain (commonly known as shin splints)
This refers to the pain down the front bone of your leg, the tibia. It is common in many sports as well as in runners and triathletes. Shin splints can be caused by a sudden increase in activity, footwear, muscle strains, trauma, overuse and hard training surfaces. Treatment can include training advice and modifications, gait analysis, footwear assessment, Foot Orthoses and insoles. - Stress fracture in foot
Stress fractures are a small crack in the bone from repetitive stress and trauma of the bone. Running short or long distances as well as sports involving jumping and kicking are common contributing activities. Symptoms usually begin gradually and progress to more intense localised pain and swelling. Pain is usually most severe during exercise but may also be present during rest.
Talk to our friendly and qualified podiatry staff at podiatry@belmont, we can deal with the full range of complaints including heel pain and foot injuries from running or other sports.