Sports Medicine
Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Bryant Castelein, DPM – Podiatry Specialist
Ankle Sprains
The most common lower limb injury in athletes is an ankle sprain.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn. Typically this occurs from an inversion injury where the foot rolls inwards on the body placing stress and strain to the outside aspect of the ankle. Symptoms of an ankle sprain may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle. Athletes who participate in high-impact sports such as basketball, soccer, or football are at increased risk for ankle sprains. Dr. Castelein utilizes in-office x-ray to diagnose an ankle sprain along with the severity level.
Treatment for ankle sprains typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the affected limb. Over-the-counter pain medications may help to manage discomfort. Symptoms tend to lessen each day and normal activity is initiated a few days after the strain. In more severe cases the ligaments of the ankle can be stretched or torn. When damage occurs to the supporting structures of the ankle, bracing or immobilizing may be needed. If ligaments become torn, surgical intervention is typically the best route to restabilize the ankle joint. The goal of both surgical and conservative treatments is to provide stability to the ankle joint allowing for full use of the ankle while reducing the chances of future injury and arthritis.
Physical therapy exercises may also be recommended to help restore joint mobility and strength.
Dr. Castelein plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of ankle sprains in athletes. He can provide personalized treatment plans based on the severity of the injury and the specific needs of the patient, with the goal of minimizing pain and promoting full recovery. With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most athletes can expect to return to their sport within a few weeks following an ankle sprain!
Tendonitis is a common condition that affects athletes and active individuals. Athletes involved in sports with repetitive movements such as running or jumping can put significant, repetitive stress on the tendons.
Tendon ruptures are more severe injuries that can occur when a tendon becomes overstretched leading to failure. A tendon rupture refers to a complete or partial tear in the tendon, resulting in loss of function and intense pain. Athletes who participate in sports involving quick and explosive movements, such as basketball or soccer are at a higher risk of tendon ruptures. Dr. Castelein understands the unique demands placed on your feet and ankles during sports activities, and we are dedicated to helping you get back to your active lifestyle pain-free.
Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial or managing tendon injuries from tendonitis to a complete tendon tear. Dr. Castelein will perform a thorough examination including a review of medical history and imaging studies, to accurately diagnose the condition. Treatment options range from conservative measures for tendonitis such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and braces to surgical interventions for tendon ruptures.
Dr. Castelein utilizes the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to provide personalized care for tendon injuries.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are a relatively common injury due to overuse.
This overuse occurs when the muscles in the front portion of the leg and shin constantly battle stronger, larger muscles in the back of the leg which have become shortened. This muscle imbalance causes pain and inflammation to the fort portion of the leg. Runners, dancers, military members and athletes playing high-impact sports are at higher risk for shin splints. This is due to the repetitive nature of their activity.
The most common symptom associated with shin splints is lower leg pain ranging from a dull ache to sharp persistent pain. Dr. Castelein diagnoses shin splints by a clinical examination and obtaining a thorough history. To rule out a stress fracture, an in-office x-ray may also be taken. Dr. Castelein then creates an individual treatment plan focused on the anatomic, functional, and sport specific needs of each patient.
The peroneal tendons course along the outer aspect of the ankle and insert into the side of the foot. The peroneal tendons assist in stabilizing and balancing the foot and ankle.
The peroneal tendons help draw the foot’s arch down while moving the foot outwards, or eversion of the foot. Peroneal tendonitis involves inflammation in one or both of the tendons. This is a common sports injury with symptoms of pain, swelling and stiffness on the outer side of the ankle, as well as difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot.
Diagnosis of peroneal tendonitis typically involves a physical examination and imaging studies such as an X-ray or MRI to evaluate the extent of the injury. Dr. Castelein utilizes in-office x-ray and works closely with a local imaging center for MRIs to quickly obtain imaging and accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for peroneal tendonitis often involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the affected limb, as well as over-the-counter pain medications to manage discomfort. Physical therapy exercises and orthotics may also be recommended to help restore joint mobility and strength.
In some cases, bracing or immobilization of the ankle may be necessary to allow for proper healing. If conservative treatments are not effective, minimally invasive surgical intervention may be required to repair or remove damaged tissue. Dr. Castelein has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating peroneal tendonitis in athletes, and can provide personalized treatment plans based on the severity of the injury and the specific needs of the patient.
With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most athletes can expect to return to their sport within a few weeks or months following peroneal tendonitis!
Fractures
Jones and Lisfranc fractures are common sports injuries that can cause significant pain and limit a person’s ability to walk or participate in athletic activities.
Jones fractures occur when a specific location of the fifth metatarsal bone, which runs along the outer edge of the foot, is fractured. Symptoms of a Jones fracture may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. Diagnosis of a Jones fracture typically involves imaging studies such as an x-ray, CT or MRI. These imaging studies help to determine the extent of the injury. Treatment for a Jones fracture typically involves immobilization of the foot in a cast or brace which Dr. Castelein offers in-office. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or remove damaged tissue and offer the best chance of healing.
Lisfranc fractures occur when one or more of the bones in the midfoot are broken or displaced. Symptoms of a Lisfranc fracture may include pain, swelling, difficulty bearing weight, deformity or instability in the arch of the foot. Diagnosis of a Lisfranc fracture typically involves imaging studies such as an X-ray or MRI, which can help to determine the extent of the injury. Treatment for a Lisfranc fracture may involve immobilization of the foot in a cast or brace. In more severe injuries, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign and stabilize the arch of the foot.
Dr. Castelein has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating Jones and Lisfranc fractures in athletes. He can provide personalized treatment plans based on the severity of the injury and the specific needs of each patient. With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most athletes can expect to return to their sport within a few months following a Jones or Lisfranc fracture. It is important for athletes to seek prompt medical treatment if they experience symptoms of these fractures, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term complications and promote a full recovery.
Turf toe is a common injury among athletes, particularly those who play sports that involve jumping or quick changes in direction.
Diagnosis of turf toe and arthritis typically involves a physical examination and x-ray imaging studies. Occasionally MRI or CT scans are used to evaluate the extent of the injury.
Treatment for these conditions can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the specific needs of the patient. Dr. Castelein, a skilled podiatrist, can provide personalized treatment plans that may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the affected limb, as well as over-the-counter pain medications to manage discomfort.
Physical therapy exercises may also be recommended to help restore joint mobility and strength. In some cases, custom orthotics or braces may be used to support the affected joint and prevent further damage. In more severe cases, an arthroscopy surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged tissue and promote proper healing.
Dr. Castelein works closely with his patients to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and physical goals to minimize pain and promote full recovery. With appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, most patients with turf toe and arthritis can expect to return to their sport or activities within a few weeks following injury.
& Exceptional Doctors
Julie
Amy
Yo K
Robert
Joseph
Lexi
Christena
Nicole C
Ashley
Alex