Football players can receive injuries to the foot and ankle due to running, side to side cutting, or from direct trauma, such as from another player during a tackle. They should be aware of the following risks:
Inversion ankle sprains can damage the ankle ligaments, and can also be associated with peroneal tendon injuries and fractures.
Ankle fractures, metatarsal fractures, and Lisfranc fractures can sideline athletes and sometimes require surgery.
Contusions and bone bruises may also result from high impact during tackling.
Overuse and excessive training can lead to heel pain (plantar fasciitis), Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, stress fractures, posterior tibial tendonitis (or PTTD), and calcaneal apophysitis in children and adolescents.
Dr. Anthony Lo is a board-certified podiatric physician and surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle surgery. With over 20 years of experience, his medical special interests include foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine and regenerative therapeutics.
Dr. Yen is a board-certified podiatrist experienced with all disorders related to the foot and ankle. He sees adults, pediatric patients and seniors for routine checkups, surgical treatments, and sports-related foot and ankle injuries.