Running Injuries of the Foot & Ankle

Whether an athlete is a recreational, competitive, or elite runner, foot and ankle health is essential for optimal performance. Runners are susceptible to running injuries of the foot & ankle including heel pain (plantar fasciitis), Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, neuromas, capsulitis of the second toe, stress fractures, posterior tibial tendonitis (or PTTD), and calcaneal apophysitis in children and adolescents.

The most common foot complaint of runners is plantar fasciitis.  Plantar fasciitis commonly occurs to those who overtrain, neglect to stretch their calf muscles (Achilles Tendon), or overdo hill work and speedwork. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that stretches from the toes to the heel. That tearing, which usually occurs at the point where the fascia attaches to the heel, results in inflammation. Because the fascia has a poor blood supply, it can be a slow-healing, chronic condition. In these cases, the injury can result in a heel spur, a tiny, soft calcium deposit that forms from the bone trying to heal itself. While the spur isn’t painful, it can further irritate the fascia.

Evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist will help the athlete determine the underlying cause of pain and the best course of treatment. Custom orthotic devices are often used for treatment of these conditions.