Whether you compete for your school, run ultra-marathons, play in a pickleball league, or run for fun and fitness, nothing will sideline you faster than a foot or ankle injury. Before you lose too much ground, we recommend that you see a podiatrist who understands the issues athletes and active people face when they suffer an injury.
Dr. Zoe Ramos takes an approach that includes whole-body wellness, injury prevention, and healing the existing injury. As a runner, she understands why getting to know her patients and their fitness goals is important before developing an appropriate treatment plan. Don't wait for a minor ache or pain to develop into something bigger. Schedule a visit with us before you're knocked completely off your feet.
Sports Injuries We Treat in Our East Bay Office
Regardless of the sport you play or the kind of exercise you do, if you're on your feet, you are susceptible to a foot or ankle injury or chronic, painful condition. Dr. Ramos applies state-of-the-art technology and years of practical experience to correctly diagnose your injury or identify the source of your pain before developing a treatment plan. Typical sports injuries we see in our office include the following:
- Ankle sprains. Common in court and field sports, ankle sprains can happen when an athlete twists or turns their ankle when landing a jump or making a quick lateral move. Not seeking treatment for sore and sprained ankles can result in chronic ankle instability and recurring injuries.
- Stress fractures. The constant pressure and stress that runners, gymnasts, dancers, and other athletes put on their feet and ankles can cause small hairline fractures that cause pain and limitations on performance. The first step to properly healing a stress fracture is getting the correct diagnosis through an X-ray or MRI scan.
- Morton's neuroma. Athletes who spend a lot of time on the balls of their feet—such as basketball, tennis, and volleyball players—risk aggravating the nerves in the ball of the foot. The earlier you begin treatment to reduce the inflammation, the more quickly you'll recover and return to the game.
- Achilles tendonitis. Common in runners and weekend warriors, strain on the Achilles tendon can cause tenderness and pain in the heel. Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatories are usually recommended, but shockwave therapy can be very effective for chronic tendonitis.
- Plantar fasciitis. Inflammation of the plantar fascia can happen to anyone who is on their feet a lot and is common in all kinds of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. It can often be prevented by wearing the proper footwear or having custom-made orthotics in your athletic shoes. Again, the sooner you seek treatment, the faster you'll be off the bench.
- Blisters and ingrown toenails. Nothing can derail your marathon goals faster than a bad blister. The same goes for an ingrown toenail. We have quick, effective, and non-invasive treatments and preventions for these pesky but potentially devastating injuries.
Even if a foot or ankle injury is not caused by participating in a sport or exercise routine, it will definitely keep you from doing what you love. Do not hesitate to get an assessment from a skilled podiatrist!