F20
The causes The symptoms The relief AN INSTRIDE INFOGRAPHIC
Achilles
“Unless you have a good foundation, your house is going to crumble,” said Dr. Francis J. Bean at the Foot & Ankle Center in Mooresville. Because “problems with the feet can affect the rest of your body,” it pays to take care of them.
Power forwards and average guys on the street can suffer a swollen or torn Achilles tendon, the connecting tissue between the heel and calf. It may be hard to put weight on the foot, and the pain can be intense. Rest is essential. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Bean’s advice: Stretch the arches, calves and hamstrings before any physical activity. Also, get shoes “with room in the toe box.” And, of course, always talk to your doctor.
Ankle Small injuries such as rolling the ankle — a simple misstep at a curb or stairs — can damage the tendons attached to the knob of the ankle. Chronic ankle instability can be as bad as a fracture. A special walking boot may be prescribed for severe sprains.
Toes Pain, tingling or burning can be a symptom of several problems, including pinched nerves or diabetes. Hammertoes and bunions can be corrected with improved footwear, but severe cases may require surgery.
Heel Arch
Bunion The enlarged bony area can become quite inflamed and painful. 20 INstride • May 2016
A flat foot tends to be more unstable, causing the muscles to overwork. Complications include bunions, tendonitis and heel pain. Ironically, a very high arch — or super arch — can result in identical issues.
When the ligament connecting the toes to the heel is strained and inflamed, the resulting heel pain — plantar fasciitis — can be unbearable. It’s common among athletes and people on their feet for long hours. Rest and a routine of stretching is recommended.