Common sports-related foot problems
- Heel pain and plantar fasciitis — pain under the heel, often worst first thing in the morning
- Achilles tendon pain — pain and stiffness at the back of the heel or ankle
- Pain in the ball of the foot — often from repeated impact or footwear
- Shin pain — usually linked to a sudden increase in training
- Blisters, callus and bruised toenails — from friction and pressure in sports footwear
Why sports injuries happen
Most foot and lower-limb sports injuries are overuse injuries: the tissues are asked to do more than they are ready for. Common causes include increasing distance or intensity too quickly, a change of surface, worn-out or unsuitable footwear, and the way an individual foot moves and absorbs load.
How Achilles Podiatry can help
Ian will examine the injured area, look at your footwear and talk through your training and what changed before the pain started. Treatment is aimed at settling the pain and getting you back to activity safely, and may include:
- Advice on adjusting training while you recover
- Padding, strapping and offloading
- Footwear advice for your sport
- Custom Foot Levelers orthotics designed for active use
If your injury needs a scan, physiotherapy or another specialist, Ian can advise on the right next step.
When to get help sooner
Go to A&E or an urgent treatment centre if you can't put any weight on your foot after an injury, if it looks deformed, or if you felt a snap or sudden pain at the back of the ankle — this can be a sign of an Achilles tendon rupture.
Common questions
Should I keep running through foot pain?
Pain that is getting worse, changes how you run or lasts after activity is a sign to ease off and get it checked. Running through it can turn a short problem into a long one.
Can the wrong trainers cause injuries?
Worn-out or unsuitable footwear is a common contributing factor. Advice on footwear for your foot type and sport is part of every sports injury assessment.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist for a sports injury?
No. Achilles Podiatry is a private practice, so you can book directly online or by phone.