There are thin tendons on the top of your feet that connect your toes with muscles in the front of the lower leg. These are called extensor tendons. Extensor tendons help you flex your feet and raise your toes. Because they reside just underneath the skin on the top of the feet and have no padding, they are susceptible to becoming injured, inflamed, and painful. This is known as extensor tendonitis. Extensor tendonitis can sometimes be caused by overuse, or from shoes that are too tight. Dancers, runners, skiers, and skaters are susceptible to developing extensor tendonitis because they wear shoes that lace tightly in the front which can press hard against these tendons. In this way, extensor tendonitis is sometimes a sports-related injury. Extensor tendonitis can be diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist who may need to analyze imaging tests to rule out other injuries and make sure no other damage has been done to surrounding structures. It is suggested you consult with your podiatrist for shoe modifications, stretching, and strengthening exercises, and they may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, suggest icing, or even prescribe steroid therapy. In very severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the extensor tendons.

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 Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.