Items filtered by date: March 2025

Snowboarders often suffer from a range of foot and ankle issues caused by falls, tight boots, and cold conditions. Impact from jumps and rough landings can lead to bruises, sprains, and even fractures. When pain appears on the outer front of the ankle, careful diagnosis is very important. Sometimes, a small fracture can be mistaken for a simple ligament sprain, yet it might need surgery. Doctors should examine such pain closely to determine the real cause. Other problems include blisters, swelling, and nerve pain that can worsen with continued pressure. Wearing properly fitting boots and doing regular stretching exercises can help reduce these issues. Regular foot check-ups can stop further damage and speed a full recovery on the slopes. If pain or swelling from a snowboarding experience does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a thorough check-up and proper care.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Donovan Gowdie, DPM of The Foot & Ankle Treatment Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Watkinsville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High arches can contribute to several foot and ankle problems due to the uneven distribution of weight. People with this condition often experience excessive pressure on the ball and heel of the foot, which can lead to metatarsalgia or plantar fasciitis. The strain placed on the toes may also result in deformities, such as hammer toe or claw toe, making it difficult to wear regular shoes without discomfort. High arches can also cause instability in the foot and ankle, which increases the risk of frequent sprains. Some people are born with high arches, while others develop them due to neurological conditions that affect muscle function. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, determine whether an underlying condition is involved, and provide recommendations to improve stability and reduce pain. Treatment may involve supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or surgery, if the condition leads to chronic pain or deformity. If you have high arches that are causing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Donovan Gowdie, DPM from The Foot & Ankle Treatment Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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