Ankle sprains are a frequent injury in volleyball, often resulting from various risk factors and causes. The sport’s fast-paced nature involves quick lateral movements, jumps, and landings, which can easily lead to rolled or twisted ankles. Uneven landings after jumps are a primary cause, especially when players descend on another’s foot. Inadequate warm-ups and poor ankle strength increase the risk, as muscles and ligaments are less prepared for sudden movements. Playing on an uneven or slippery surface can also contribute to instability and potential sprains. Additionally, wearing inappropriate footwear that lacks proper support or traction further heightens the risk. If you have endured a sprained ankle while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

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 Steven Black, DPM from California . 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 Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, resulting from a thickening of tissue around a nerve, often between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms include a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness in the affected area, along with the feeling of a small pebble or lump underfoot. Pain may worsen with activity or wearing tight shoes. Treatment options for Morton's neuroma focus on relieving pressure on the affected nerve. This includes wearing shoes with a wider toe box or adding padding to support the arch and alleviate pressure. Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms also helps. Podiatrists may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, or in severe cases, surgical removal of the neuroma. Early intervention ensures effective management, relieving discomfort and restoring foot function. Visiting a podiatrist is suggested for a precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Steven Black, DPM of California . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity causing one or more of the smaller toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition arises primarily due to muscle imbalances that lead to increased pressure on the tendons and joints of the toe. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly those that are too tight or have high heels, as well as genetic predispositions and conditions like arthritis. Symptoms of hammertoe include pain or irritation while wearing shoes, corns and calluses on the toe, redness and swelling, and in severe cases, open sores. The affected toe may become rigid over time, making movement difficult and painful. Preventing hammertoe involves wearing properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room, avoiding high heels, and performing toe-stretching exercises to maintain flexibility. Early intervention is key to managing the condition effectively. Treatment options range from non-surgical methods, such as wearing custom orthotic devices, using padding to reduce pressure, and taking anti-inflammatory medications, to surgical procedures for severe cases where the toe has become rigid. Surgery typically involves realigning the toe and correcting the deformity. Complications of untreated hammertoe can include chronic pain, difficulty in walking, and persistent sores or infections, which can lead to further foot problems. If you have an uncomfortable hammertoe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Steven Black, DPM from California . Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lancaster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.