The exercise and all the other positive benefits of sports make playing worth the potential injuries. Unfortunately, injuries still happen, including ankle and foot injuries. The good news is you have an option to help you heal from ankle and foot injuries quickly and fully and get back in the game as soon as possible — podiatrist, Dr. Mathew John, of Ankle & Foot Centers, serving Marietta, GA, and the nearby region.

Exercises 

One of the treatments our podiatrist in Marietta, GA, may suggest for a sports injury is exercise therapy. For this particular treatment, our practitioner will lead you in performing stretches that work your injured body part. These stretches are gentle and slow and will gradually increase in difficulty, promoting healing while ensuring you don't feel pain.

Besides the exercises you do in our office, our podiatrist can educate you on how frequently you can perform these at home to optimize your results.

Brace or Boot 

Part of your treatment plan may include wearing a brace or boot. The purpose of it is to protect your foot or ankle from further injury by stabilizing it and ensuring it can't move beyond your comfort zone. Wearing your boot or brace may also help reduce your pain because you won't be able to move the area.

R.I.C.E.

For acute mild to moderate soft tissue injuries, like sprains or tendinitis, using the R.I.C.E. method may be advised. For this, you'll need to do the following:

• Rest the injury.
• Ice the area to reduce swelling.
• Compression can ease the swelling and reduce the pain.
• Elevate the injury to decrease swelling and lessen your discomfort.

We tend to recommend this method initially to promote healing and prevent any further injury.

Custom Orthotics 

Injuries or stress on the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, or other components of the foot may benefit from a custom orthotic. These work to provide support where you need it most. It also works to ease pain and absorb shock.

While you can purchase them over the counter, these aren't designed for your foot. Our practitioner can make sure you have one especially for you that is comfortable and provides the highest level of support.

Corticosteroid Injections

Sometimes, our physician will recommend a corticosteroid injection in the area to reduce swelling, which can jump-start the healing process and minimize your pain.

Patient Education

Our podiatrist will reduce your chances of this happening again or another injury by educating you on the importance of stretching, helping you with your technique, and guiding you on finding shoes for your sport.

Contact Us for More Information

Schedule a visit to Ankle & Foot Centers, serving Marietta, GA, and the general vicinity, to see our podiatrist, Dr. John. Call us at (770) 977-3668.