A Simple Look into Jump-related Foot Injuries

Jumping injuries occur when the foot is subjected to abuse due to repeated trauma from high-impact activities. The feet are designed to absorb the shock of our body’s weight impact on the ground. The force of this pressure is multiplied a couple of times when jumping.

Pain is an early sign of jumping-related foot injury, but it can also be caused by other foot disorders. Consult a podiatrist for proper diagnosis of a foot injury. Dr. Jonathan Kletz is a podiatrist who specializes in foot care and treating foot injuries.

• Jumping injuries are usually caused by:
• a sudden increase in the intensity of training
• incorrect footwear
• surface of the training location
• technique or routines used during training

In this blog, we will tackle one of the most common tendon injuries caused by the jumping.  

Achilles Tendonitis/Tendinitis

Generally, it is the term used to refer to the inflammation of a person's Achilles tendon. This is usually due to the repetitive movements of jumping which causes the tendon to be overused and injured.

Signs and Symptoms:

• pain and stiffness on the impacted area
• loss of strength
• crunchy sound when using your Achilles tendon
• inflamed area is red, warm and swollen

Diagnosis of a jump-related foot injuries

Physical exam. This may include letting you stand on the balls of your foot while doing some flexibility and range of motion movements.

Imaging tests. These may not be necessary but some doctors will order this to know the extent of the damage of the injury. These imaging tests may include x-rays, MRI scans and ultrasounds.

Management and Treatments

• Rest your tendon from weight bearing activities.
• Apply ice packs for 20-30 minutes every 2-4 hours to lessen the pain and the swelling.
• Elevate your affected foot to reduce swelling.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs can be given but it is advisable to take it only after the first 48-72 hours from the injury as these medications usually result to further bleeding.
• Immobilize your foot or restrict movement using a brace or any compressive elastic bandages.
• Go to a physical therapist. The therapist will have the proper regimen and plan to ensure that the right amount of activities are given to the impacted part of the body -- not too heavy yet not too light.

These activities will help strengthen calf muscles and ensure that the tendon will be healed.

At Texas Foot Works located in Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrell City, TX, we specialize in helping people with Achilles Tendonitis.  To schedule an appointment, call 214-340-8885.