As pickleball becomes more popular, foot and ankle injuries are becoming more common. The sport’s quick movements, sudden stops, and fast pivots place added pressure on tendons, ligaments, and bones. One serious concern is injury to the Achilles tendon, which can occur without warning and is especially common among men. Other frequent problems include ankle sprains, heel pain, and overuse injuries like stress fractures. Playing on hard courts, skipping warm-ups, or wearing the wrong shoes can increase the risk of harm. Continuing to play through discomfort may worsen the injury and slow recovery. Whether you play pickleball for fitness or fun, it is important to protect your feet and ankles to avoid long-term problems. If you notice swelling, pain, or stiffness after playing, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoes begins with understanding your foot type, such as flat, neutral, or high-arched, as each requires different support. Your running style, whether on roads or trails, also affects the type of shoe you need. Shoe categories include stability, cushioned, or motion control, each offering unique benefits based on foot biomechanics. Achieving the perfect fit means ensuring proper toe room, arch support, and heel grip without discomfort. A podiatrist can analyze your gait, assess foot structure, and recommend shoes or inserts tailored to your needs. If you have developed foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on selecting the right running shoe.  

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendon injuries involve damage to the strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. These injuries can range from inflammation to partial or complete tears. Common causes include overuse, sudden increases in activity, tight calf muscles, or improper footwear. Symptoms include heel pain, stiffness, swelling, or a snapping sensation during movement. Risk factors include intense physical activity, poor conditioning, and certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury through examination and imaging, then recommend treatments such as rest, stretching, or orthotics. If you are experiencing pain in the back of the heel, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis often affects multiple joints, including those in the feet, ankles, legs, and even the hands. Custom-made foot orthotics can provide meaningful relief by offering targeted support that improves overall alignment and reduces joint stress. In comparison to standard insoles, custom orthotics have been shown to lower pain levels in the feet and ankles and also reduce discomfort felt in the legs, arms, and hands. This broader pain relief may result from improved movement patterns and less strain placed on other joints. Additionally, the use of these devices has been linked to reduced ankle motion, such as plantar flexion and eversion, which can help limit further joint irritation. For people with rheumatoid arthritis, this support can make daily activities more manageable and less painful. If rheumatoid arthritis is causing you ongoing discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Custom orthotics play an important role in preventing and treating foot and ankle injuries by providing personalized support that aligns with the unique structure of each foot. These specially designed devices help correct biomechanical imbalances, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and improve stability during movement. When the feet are properly supported, the risk of developing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and ankle sprains can be significantly reduced. Custom orthotics also help relieve discomfort caused by having flat feet, high arches, or uneven leg length, which may contribute to recurring injuries or pain.

Foot and ankle injuries can develop gradually from repetitive strain or occur suddenly during physical activity. Without proper treatment, these injuries can affect mobility and overall quality of life. Orthotics work to redistribute weight evenly across the foot, allowing joints and muscles to function more efficiently. This not only supports recovery from injury but can also prevent future problems by promoting better posture and alignment throughout the lower body.

Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are designed based on a detailed evaluation of each patient’s foot structure, gait, and medical needs. Podiatrists use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to create orthotics that fit precisely and provide targeted correction. Whether used in everyday footwear or athletic shoes, custom orthotics can improve comfort, enhance performance, and support long-term foot health.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain or have sustained an injury that has not improved with rest, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Call our office for more information or to make an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL .