Our feet are incredible structures, made up of dozens of bones, joints, muscles, and tendons, all working together to support our body weight and help us move around. Unfortunately, this also means that they are vulnerable to a variety of injuries.
Most injuries to children's toes, feet, and ankles occur as a result of play, sports, or falls. Jumping games like basketball, and those that require frequent changes of direction like soccer and football, increase the likelihood of injury. When a kid has an injury to a bone near a joint, it is important to assess the possibility of damage to the growth plate (physis).
Everyone has pain or swelling in their toes, feet, or ankles from time to time. Although most of the time our bodily motions don't give us any trouble, it's not uncommon that we can have some discomfort after experiencing normal wear and tear, excessive use, or an injury.
Injuries to the toes, feet, or ankles typically occur when:
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Sports and other forms of recreation.
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Work or projects around the home.
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Home maintenance.
Common Foot Injuries:
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Sprained Ankles
The affected foot may hurt, swell, and make it hard to put weight on it. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the "RICE" treatment) are often recommended, and physical therapy is often used to rebuild strength and range of motion in the ankle.
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The Pain in Your Feet Caused by Plantar Fasciitis
The inflammation and pain of plantar fasciitis affect the thick band of tissue that spans the bottom of the foot. It's frequent in runners and other sportsmen because of the repetitive motions they perform. Heel pain, especially upon waking or after a period of inactivity, is a common symptom. Rest, stretching exercises, orthotics, and even surgery are among potential treatments.
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Acute Stress Disorders
Overuse or repetitive stress is a common cause of stress fractures, which are tiny breaks in the bones of the foot. The top of the foot's metatarsal bones are a popular location for them. There may be localized discomfort, edema, and tenderness. In most cases, doctors will recommend bed rest, immobilization, and the use of crutches as a form of treatment.
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Achilles tendinitis
The Achilles tendon is a fibrous band of tissue that runs from the back of the calf muscle to the back of the heel. When the Achilles tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, usually as a result of overuse or strain, the condition is known as tendonitis. Pain, edema, and stiffness in the ankle's rear are all possible symptoms. In severe circumstances, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
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Bunions
The joint at the base of the big toe is prone to developing a bony lump, known as a bunion. Common causes include abnormally narrow or tight shoes, as well as genetic structural defects. Pain, swelling, and redness near the afflicted joint are common symptoms, as is trouble putting on shoes. Bunion treatment options include surgical excision, surgery to widen the foot, padding or orthotics, and wider shoes.
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Morton's Neuroma
Tissue around one of the nerves that supply the toes might swell and cause a condition known as Morton's neuroma. It's common among women who wear high heels and can be brought on by prolonged stress or strain. Pain, burning, and tingling in the toes are possible symptoms. Wearing shoes that are broader, utilizing padding or orthotics to take the strain off the nerve, and even surgery are all potential treatments.
Prevention
Although it is not always practical, there are measures you can take to lessen the likelihood of suffering a foot injury. Among these are:
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Putting on supportive footwear that fits well
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Avoiding overuse injuries through gradual exercise intensity and duration increases
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Flexibility can be increased and injury avoided with regular pre- and post-workout stretching.
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Whenever you feel pain or discomfort, take a pause and rest.
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Reducing the strain on your feet by keeping a healthy weight