Sports Medicine And Work Injuries Specialist

What is sports medicine?

Sports medicine is a branch of health care that focuses on treating athletes and other active individuals. Sports medicine specialists, like the team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry, help patients recover from injuries, prevent accidents, and improve general health and well-being. 

What are some common sports-related injuries?

There are hundreds of different sports-related injuries. The team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry regularly treats and diagnoses:

• Shin splints
• Plantar fasciitis
• Sprained ankles
• Ligament injuries
• Tendon injuries

The team also treats bunions and hammertoes, two deformities that can occur as a result of wearing uncomfortable or ill-fitting footwear. 

How are sports-related injuries treated?

The treatment for sports-related injuries depends on the underlying cause. An underlying minor biomechanical fault, coupled with repetitive sports related activity can lead to sub acute injuries which can sideline athletes from elite performers to weekend warriors. Trauma in contact sports or in ballistic type motions can lead to acute injuries including sprains, strains, and even fractures. It is extremely important that the athlete be evaluated biomechanically and that the foot and ankle be maintained in optimal positioning to provide the patient with maximal performance while guarding against injury. The team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry recommends conservative methods of care whenever possible. For example, if you're experiencing heel or ankle pain, your provider might discuss appropriate foot wear or recommend rest, ice, and physical therapy. If these methods of care aren’t able to provide relief, you might benefit from custom orthotics. In rare instances, if your problems persist for months at a time, x-ray, mri or surgical intervention may be necessary.

What should I do if I injure myself on the job?

If you injure yourself on the job, it’s important to tell your supervisor right away. You should get documentation, including your employer’s compensation carrier.  Try to write down as many details from the injury as possible. If your injury is significant, you should go to an emergency room right away for x-rays and evaluation  You should also take note of the day and time, and then schedule an appointment with the team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry. 

If your injury happens outside of normal office hours and you’re in a significant amount of pain, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room right away. You can always follow up with our team

How are work-related injuries diagnosed and treated?

The team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry diagnoses work-related injuries by performing a physical exam, reviewing your medical history, and asking about your symptoms. Depending on the nature of your accident, they might also order X-rays or another type of diagnostic imaging. 

Treatment of work-related injuries is similar to treatment of other types of trauma.  The team at Downstate Foot and Ankle will provide expert medical care while helping you negotiate the paperwork maze that can be involved in receiving disability and treatment through workers’ compensation.  We work with attorneys who specialize in the fields of disability and workers’ compensation. 

If a foot or ankle injury is keeping you sidelined or preventing you from going to work, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical help. Make an appointment at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry by calling or clicking today.