Podiatrists like Dr. Russell Samofal at Podiatry Center of New Jersey, located in Passaic County, see many children with foot and ankle problems that can arise especially from athletic activities. The following are some of the most common injuries.

Acute injuries – those that occur usually as a result of a fall or sudden pressure or trauma to the foot or ankle.

  • Ankle sprains – A sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle bone become overstretched or torn as a result of the ankle rolling either inward or more commonly outward. This injury occurs often during athletic activities, but can occur to anyone, even when walking.
  • Fractures – If enough pressure is exerted on a bone, it can break at different severities. A break can be partial, complete, or break through the skin to cause a compound fracture. Immediate treatment is required.

Overuse injuries – When too much stress is applied to certain structures in the foot or ankle, an array of problems can arise.

  • Sever’s disease – Typically occurring in young adolescents who are rapidly growing, Sever’s disease causes the heel growth plate to become inflamed and painful. Running and jumping movements can exacerbate the condition.
  • Stress fractures – When a bone cannot withstand the continued stress that is exerted on it, a crack in the bone can develop and cause pain and swelling.
  • Achilles tendinitis – When a lot of jumping and running movements are involved in a sport, the Achilles tendon, located above the heel bone and connected to the calf muscles, can become injured or irritated.

It is recommended that an experienced podiatrist diagnoses and treats these conditions, which commonly involves rest, using ice to minimize inflammation, compression and elevating the injured foot. Often the intensity of organized athletic activities can be stressful and demanding on a growing child’s body, so it is important to prevent these types of injuries through proper stretching, warm ups, equipment and protective gear. Dr. Samofal treats many sports-related injuries and also specializes in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Contact our Wayne office at (973) 925-4111 to schedule an appointment today!