Active Adults, Athletic Injuries, and Effective Treatments

Staying active as an adult will help you stay healthy as you age, improving both your physical and mental well-being. However, adult fitness also comes with its own set of challenges: One study revealed that 39% of adults engaged in sports or recreational activities sustained an injury in the course of the previous year.

Northen Foot Ankle Associates wants you to be well-informed and a step ahead of any mishaps that might occur. The shortlist of injuries and associated treatments below should help you to do just that.

Active Common Culprits

Below are a few examples of the more typical sports injuries we treat in active adults.

Fractures

While less frequent than in younger populations, fractures can still occur in active adults, particularly in the foot and ankle: A 2022 study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that stress fractures in the foot and ankle increased by 23% among adults aged 50-65 between 2005 and 2017.

Tendon Injuries

Repetitive strain can lead to inflammation in tendons, causing pain and tenderness. Runners, in particular, will often suffer from Achilles tendonitis.

Plantar Fasciitis

Thisinflammation of the tissue supporting the arch is a common source of heel pain. Studies show up to 10% of adults experience plantar fasciitis in their lifetime.

Sprains

Ankle sprains are the most common sports injury, often caused by twists or rolls of the joint. They can take different forms, however, ranging from mild to severe.

Effective Treatments

Podiatrists deal with a wide array of sports injuries, so they’re well aware of the best treatment methods. We’ve listed a few below:

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and targeted stretches rehabilitate injured muscles and improve stability.
  • Bracing and Orthotics: These supportive devices can alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
  • Minimally Invasive Techniques: In some cases, podiatrists utilize advanced techniques like ultrasound-guided injections to speed recovery.
  • Surgery: With severe injuries or in the event that conservative options aren’t sufficient, reconstructive surgery can be the best option for relief.

As always, the assistance of an expert DPM is your best bet for healthy, happy feet. If you’re in need of podiatric care or assistance, please reach out to Northern Ankle Foot Associates and contact us today. Dr. Robyn Joseph would be happy to help!