Exercise is good for you, but sometimes you can injure yourself when you exercise or play active sports. Improper gear, poor training practices, or accidents can cause sports injuries. Not warming up or stretching before exercising or playing sports can also lead to injuries. Capital Region Foot Care, which is located in Albany, NY, offers treatments for a variety of sports-related foot and ankle injuries. Dr. Marc Ginsburg and Dr. Steven Lam are some of the top podiatrists in Albany, NY. Read on to learn about some common types of sports injuries.

Sprains/Strains

The most common types of sports injuries are strains and sprains. A strain is a stretch or tear that happens in a tendon or muscle. A sprain is a stretch or tear in a ligament. Sprains and strains usually occur when you overstretch or overuse a muscle. Podiatrists often treat sprains in the big toe joint, midfoot area and ankle. All sprains and strains should be evaluated by a doctor.

Tendon Injuries

Painful tendon injuries occur due to intense exercise, trauma, sprains, and muscle imbalances. Athletes who participate in soccer, softball, track and field, volleyball, and racquet sports are particularly susceptible. These injuries may affect your heel, arch, Achilles tendon, peroneal tendon on the side of your foot, or the extensor tendon on the top of your foot. Tendon injuries should be evaluated by a doctor.

Fractures

Broken bones (also called fractures) in the ankle or foot are very common. Broken bones in the ankle or foot cause swelling and pain. Fractures can result from a direct blow to the foot—such as dropping a heavy object on your toes or kicking something hard. They can also result from the repetitive stress that comes with participating in high-impact sports like basketball or running. It is important to seek medical care any time you think you may have broken a bone in your ankle or foot.

Abrasions

An abrasion is a wearing away of the upper layer of skin as a result of applied friction force. Abrasions can be caused by fighting, accidents, and sports injuries. Abrasions are less severe than lacerations, and bleeding, if present, is minimal. Mild abrasions, or scrapes, do not bleed or scar, but deep abrasions may lead to the formation of scar tissue. A severe abrasion that removes all layers of skin is called an avulsion. Severe abrasions should be treated by a doctor.

Dislocations

A dislocation is an injury where a joint is forced out of normal position. A dislocation is painful and immobilizes the joint. Examples of affected areas include the ankles, feet, shoulders, elbows, fingers, hips, or knees. This usually happens from an accident, a fall, or participation in sports. Prompt medical attention is needed to put the joint back in place, followed by several weeks of rest.  A sports injury can affect your daily activities and make your life miserable. If you have a sports injury, call Capital Region Foot Care at (518) 465-3515 today to schedule an appointment in Albany, NY. Our treatments will alleviate your pain and help you get back to a happy and healthy life.