Foot and ankle care for injuries, degenerative diseases and other conditions

Treating foot and ankle injuries

Whether it’s due to overuse from repetitive motion, an acute injury such as a fall or a sports-related accident, injuries to the feet and ankles are common. The foot and ankle doctors at OrthoIndy are trained to treat strains, sprains, fractures, tendon injuries and more.

Common athletic injuries

Whether it’s volleyball, football, basketball or cross-country, it seems like every athlete experiences a sprained ankle or a strained muscle in their career. In fact, these minor issues involving muscles, ligaments, and/or tendons, cause the majority of sports injuries.

A sprain is a twisting injury or tears to a ligament. Sprains most often affect the ankles, knees, or wrists. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon and is often caused by overuse, force, or stretching. Treatment plans for a sprain or strain will depend on the athlete’s age, overall health, medical history, the extent of the injury, and the athlete’s tolerance for medications, procedures, or therapies.

Initial treatment for a sprain or strain is usually R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation). Other treatment options include:

• Medications
• Activity Restrictions
• Splint or Casts
• Crutches or Wheelchair Use
• Physical Therapy
• Surgery (only for extreme cases)