There are thin tendons on the top of your feet that connect your toes with muscles in the front of the lower leg. These are called extensor tendons. Extensor tendons help you flex your feet and raise your toes. Because they reside just underneath the skin on the top of the feet and have no padding, they are susceptible to becoming injured, inflamed, and painful. This is known as extensor tendonitis. Extensor tendonitis can sometimes be caused by overuse, or from shoes that are too tight. Dancers, runners, skiers, and skaters are susceptible to developing extensor tendonitis because they wear shoes that lace tightly in the front which can press hard against these tendons. In this way, extensor tendonitis is sometimes a sports-related injury. Extensor tendonitis can be diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist who may need to analyze imaging tests to rule out other injuries and make sure no other damage has been done to surrounding structures. It is suggested you consult with your podiatrist for shoe modifications, stretching, and strengthening exercises, and they may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, suggest icing, or even prescribe steroid therapy. In very severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the extensor tendons.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.