The Role of a Foot and Ankle Surgeon in Treating Sports-Related Injuries

The Role of a Foot and Ankle Surgeon in Treating Sports-Related Injuries

Sports often means putting strain and wear on the body, which results in injuries. Dr. Jeffrey Agricola is your trusted foot doctor at Prestige Podiatry. When you need a reliable foot and ankle surgeon in Indianapolis & Carmel, IN, call on his expertise.

Proper Diagnosis

There are several injuries that athletes can suffer in their foot and ankle area. You may have issues with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, sprains, fractures, heel spurs, and more. Symptoms can range from pain and swelling to inability to bear weight. When seeing your local foot surgeon, they will run a series of tests like MRIs, CAT scans, X-rays, and visual examinations. Your doctor will also consider your pre-existing health history to determine the injury. Once your foot surgeon understands the problem, he can move forward with treatment, which may or may not involve surgery.

Non-Surgical Considerations

Just because you consult with your local foot and ankle surgeon in Indianapolis & Carmel, IN, does not mean surgery is the only option they will suggest. After all, a trained surgeon understands everyone is not a candidate for surgery, or should try some non-invasive options before using this option. During this time, your surgeon can advise non-invasive care such as wearing orthotics, physical therapy, foot stretching, compression wraps, night splints or braces, foot elevation, and even losing weight.

Successful Rehab

If non-invasive treatment doesn't work, or if your existing injury is severe enough, surgery will be your only option. Surgical care can involve realigning bones, repairing tendons and ligaments, as well as addressing chronic injuries. After surgery, proper recovery and rehabilitation are essential. Dr. Agricola can refer you to a physical therapist who understands sports medicine. Then, you can enjoy an individualized rehabilitation program over several weeks or months to help you get back to your pre-existing condition.

Dr. Agricola can also advise you on avoiding ongoing injury. He knows if you've had chronic injuries in the foot or ankle area. He may suggest improving your warm-up sessions, wearing athletic orthotics, changing your regular footwear, and performing therapeutic exercises.

Contact Us for More Information

At Prestige Podiatry, Dr. Agricola is your local trusted foot and ankle surgeon in Indianapolis & Carmel, IN. He has handled many sports injuries and will handle yours with care and grace. For an expert opinion on whether you qualify for surgery or other recovery methods, call the Indianapolis, IN, office at 317- 881-0070 or the Carmel, IN, office at 317-846-4111 today.