Podiatrists in Blackburn & Essendon
Sports Injury Melbourne
Sports Injury
Sports injuries encompass a wide range of conditions that affect the feet, ankles, and lower limbs, often resulting from the repetitive stresses and high impact associated with athletic activities. These injuries can occur in athletes of all levels, from amateurs to professionals, and can include sprains, strains, fractures, and overuse injuries. Sports podiatrists specialise in diagnosing and treating these injuries, focusing on treatment, biomechanical analysis, gait assessment, and footwear recommendations to optimise performance and prevent future injuries.
Types of Sports Injuries
Ankle Sprains
Injuries to the ligaments around the ankle, often caused by sudden twists or roll of the foot.
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, commonly caused by overuse or improper footwear.
Achilles Tendonitis
Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, typically due to overuse or repetitive stress.
Stress Fractures
Small cracks or breaks in the bones of the feet or ankles, often caused by repetitive impact or overtraining.
Shin Splints
Pain along the shinbone, resulting from inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue in the lower leg.
Morton’s Neuroma
Pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often causing burning and numbness.
Blisters
Friction-related injuries characterised by fluid-filled sacs on the skin, commonly seen in athletes who engage in repetitive movements or wear ill-fitting footwear.
Turf Toe
Injury to the joint at the base of the big toe, typically occurring from hyperextension during sports activities.
Tendonitis
Inflammation of the tendons in the foot or ankle, resulting from overuse, repetitive strain, or biomechanical abnormalities.
Stress Fractures
Hairline fractures in the bones of the foot or ankle caused by repetitive stress or overloading, often seen in runners or athletes who perform high-impact activities.
Symptoms
Pain or tenderness in the affected area
Swelling, bruising, or redness
Difficulty bearing weight or walking
Limited range of motion or stiffness
Unable to perform hopping, jumping or running movements
How We Diagnose It
Physical examination
Assessing the affected area for signs of injury, including tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
Gait analysis
Observing how you walk or run to identify any biomechanical issues that may contribute to the injury.
VALD strength testing
Assessing your strength and power using our force plates and dynamometers
Rehabilitation programs
Bespoke rehabilitation progress to return you to your chosen activity
Imaging tests
X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the internal structures and confirm the diagnosis.
Referral to on-site specialists
Involving sports physiotherapists, sports doctors, remedial massage therapists, dietitian and rehab consultants
How We Treat It
Our podiatrists offer a range of treatment options for sports injuries, including:
Rice Therapy
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce pain and inflammation in the acute phase.
Manual therapies
Soft tissue massage, shockwave therapy, dry needling and joint mobilisation.
Orthotic devices
Custom-made orthotics to support the feet and correct biomechanical issues.
Strengthening programs
Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and promote proper gait mechanics.
Bracing or taping
To provide additional support and stability to the affected area.
Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections to relieve pain and inflammation. .
Immediate Management
Rest
Avoiding activities that aggravate the injury to allow for healing.
Ice therapy
Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce pain and swelling.
Compression
Using compression bandages or wraps to support the injured area.
Elevation
Keeping the injured area elevated above heart level to reduce swelling.
Rehabilitation Process
Conservative treatment
Reduce the pain, swelling and improve mobility.
Gradual return to activity
Incrementally increasing activity levels as the injury heals, under the guidance of a podiatrist or physiotherapist.
Stretching and strengthening exercises
To restore mobility, strength, and flexibility to the affected area.
Monitoring progress
Regular follow-up appointments to assess healing and adjust the treatment plan as needed. We use VALD strength testing to help ensure you are safe to return to your chosen sport.
Returning to Activity Safely
Follow-up care
Adhering to the recommended treatment plan and attending follow-up appointments.
Proper rehabilitation
Completing rehabilitation exercises and gradually increasing activity levels.
Testing Results
Meeting certain strength and flexibility targets prior to return to activity.
Using appropriate protective gear
Wearing supportive footwear and any recommended bracing or taping during activity.
Why Choose Our Clinic
Expertise
Our podiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating sports injuries, with a focus on foot and ankle conditions.
Customised treatment plans
We develop individualised treatment plans tailored to your specific injury, activity level, and goals.
Comprehensive approach
We address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of sports injuries to provide long-term relief and prevent
Latest technology
We use advanced diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.