Foot and ankle injuries are common among people who participate in sports. Several factors contribute to this including failing to stretch or warm up properly, not wearing the proper type of shoe, and not taping or providing other types of support for the ankle or foot. The most common foot and ankle injuries suffered by people involved in sport are plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, and Achilles tendon damage or ruptures. If not treated properly,  they can lead to permanent disability.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition. It is inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick fibrous band of tissue running from the heel to the base of the toes. There are several effective treatments for this condition. Podiatrists often prescribe rest, massages, stretching, night splints, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, corticosteroids or surgery, usually in that order. The most effective treatment for plantar fasciitis is orthotics, or foot supports. Surgery is usually a last resort.

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Running, jumping, and walking, all impact this tendon. Two common injuries to the Achilles tendon are tendinitis and a rupture of the tendon. Tendinitis is inflammation in the tendon often caused by an increase in the amount and intensity of stress placed on it. It can be treated non-surgically with rest, ice or anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery in extreme cases. A rupture or tear of the Achilles tendon may be treated by placing the lower leg in a cast for several weeks or with surgery. Many Podiatrists feel surgery is the better option because it lowers the risk of re-ruptures. Both methods require 4 to 6 months of rehabilitation.

Ankle sprains are the most common sports related foot and ankle injury. A sprain occurs when the ligament holding the ankle bones and joint stretches beyond its normal range. It may be treated non-surgically with a combination of rest, ice wrapped around the joint for 30 minutes immediately after injury, compression by a bandage, and elevating the ankle above the heart for 48 hours. This combination is referred to as RICE. Severe ankle sprains in which the ligaments are torn may require arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery followed by rehabilitation.