Ankle sprains frequently affect volleyball players due to the physical demands of the sport. A sprain occurs when the ligaments around the ankle are stretched beyond their normal range, often during a sudden or forceful movement. This type of stretching injury commonly happens when players land improperly after a jump or shift direction quickly during play. The ankle may roll outward, placing excessive strain on the supporting ligaments and leading to injury.

The symptoms of an ankle sprain can vary, but often include swelling, pain, and bruising. Players may experience  instability and have difficulty walking or placing weight on the injured foot. In some cases, the ankle may feel weak or unstable during movement. Risk factors include frequent jumping, fast-paced directional changes, and close contact with other players. Wearing unsupportive footwear and skipping proper warm-up routines can further increase the risk of injury. Previous ankle injuries also make players more vulnerable to future sprains.

Ankle sprains are divided into three grades to describe their severity. A grade 1 sprain involves slight ligament stretching with mild symptoms and minimal swelling. A grade 2 sprain includes a partial ligament tear, causing moderate pain, swelling, and limited mobility. A grade 3 sprain is the most severe and involves a complete ligament tear, leading to intense pain, significant swelling, and an inability to bear weight. Accurate diagnosis helps determine the appropriate level of care.

Preventing ankle sprains in volleyball requires attention to strength, technique, and recovery. Balance training and wearing supportive footwear can improve stability and reduce stress on the ankle joint. Allowing time for recovery between games and practices is also important. Recognizing early symptoms can help prevent more serious injury. If you enjoy volleyball and have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact David K. Morris, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Falls in elderly adults are a leading cause of injury and can significantly affect independence and quality of life. A fall is defined as an unintentional loss of balance that results in landing on the ground. Common causes include poor vision, medication side effects, home safety hazards, and lack of physical activity. These factors can interfere with balance, coordination, and awareness, increasing the likelihood of a fall. Understanding these causes helps individuals and caregivers take steps to improve safety.

Symptoms that may signal a higher risk of falling include unsteady walking, dizziness, slow reaction time, and muscle weakness. Poor vision can make it difficult to detect obstacles, while certain medications may cause drowsiness or reduced alertness. Risk factors also include chronic health conditions, reduced flexibility, and limited strength. When these issues combine, they can make daily movements more challenging and increase the chance of losing balance.

Falls can result in several foot and ankle conditions, including sprains, fractures, bruising, and joint injuries. These conditions may cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking, which can limit mobility and slow recovery. Home safety hazards such as loose rugs, poor lighting, and cluttered pathways can increase the risk of these injuries. Preventive measures include improving home safety, staying physically active, and addressing vision concerns. Regular exercise can help build strength and improve balance, which supports safer movement.

Reducing fall risk requires awareness, preparation, and consistent habits. Making simple changes at home and focusing on physical health can help prevent injuries and maintain independence. Understanding symptoms and risk factors allows for early action and better outcomes. If you have foot or ankle pain from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions and additional guidance on fall prevention strategies.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Heel pain in children is often linked to a condition known as Sever’s disease, which is a common cause of discomfort in growing athletes. Sever’s disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. The heel bone grows faster than surrounding muscles and tendons during growth spurts, which can create tension and irritation. This condition is not a disease in the traditional sense, but rather an overuse injury that affects active children between 8 and 14 years old, especially those involved in running and jumping activities.

Symptoms of Sever’s disease typically include heel pain during or after physical activity, tenderness at the back of the heel, and mild swelling. Children may limp, walk on their toes, or complain of stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest. The pain often worsens with certain sports, such as soccer, basketball, or gymnastics. Pressing on the sides of the heel may also cause discomfort, which is a common sign of this condition. Early recognition of symptoms can help prevent further irritation and allow for timely care.

Several risk factors contribute to the development of heel pain related to Sever’s disease. Rapid growth during childhood can place extra stress on the heel. Tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and high levels of physical activity may increase strain on the growth plate. Hard playing surfaces and poor shock absorption can also worsen symptoms. Children who participate in year round sports without adequate rest may face a higher risk of developing this condition.

Managing heel pain in children involves reducing stress on the affected area and supporting proper foot mechanics. Rest, stretching exercises, and wearing supportive footwear can help relieve symptoms and improve comfort. Early care can prevent the condition from interfering with daily activities and sports participation. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see David K. Morris, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Achilles tendinitis is a common overuse condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This strong tendon plays a key role in walking, running, and jumping by allowing the foot to push off the ground. Achilles tendinitis develops when the tendon becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive strain. It is frequently seen in active individuals, especially those who increase activity levels too quickly or engage in high-impact exercise without proper preparation.

Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis often begin with mild pain or stiffness along the back of the heel, especially after periods of rest or in the morning. As the condition progresses, the pain may worsen during physical activity and continue afterward. Swelling, tenderness, and a thickened appearance of the tendon may also occur. Some individuals experience limited flexibility in the ankle or discomfort when climbing stairs or walking uphill. Early recognition of these symptoms can help prevent more serious tendon damage.

The primary cause of Achilles tendinitis is repetitive stress placed on the tendon without adequate recovery time. Sudden increases in physical activity, tight calf muscles, and improper warm up routines can contribute to strain. Wearing unsupportive footwear or exercising on hard surfaces may also increase the load on the tendon. Poor foot mechanics, such as flat feet or overpronation, can create uneven stress and increase the likelihood of irritation. These factors often work together to weaken the tendon over time.

Risk factors include age, high activity levels, and lack of flexibility. Individuals who participate in running or jumping sports are at greater risk. Preventive care includes gradual training progression, proper stretching, and supportive footwear. Early treatment can improve recovery and prevent long-term complications. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Achilles tendinitis.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David K. Morris, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.