Have an athletic injury? Classified as any physical harm that occurs when exercising or playing sports, the most common athletic injuries 
are fractures, dislocations, knee injuries, strains and sprains, and Achilles tendon injuries. Fortunately, here at Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia in Marietta, GA, Drs. Ketan Patel, Stephen Barrett, and Sequioa DuCasse offer full-service, state-of-the-art podiatric care to their Peachtree City-area patients. Read on to find out how our podiatrists can help you deal with your athletic injuries.
1. Pain Relief- Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Oral analgesic medications such as acetaminophen or aspirin can also be used for quick relief of pain, as well. In some cases, more high-strength painkillers can be prescribed alongside treatment.
2. Immobilization- Immobilization can reduce inflammation, pain, and prevent further damage by reducing movement. For example, a splint or cast may be used to immobilize your injured leg or foot while you heal. Sometimes splints are used immediately following an injury due to inflammation of the affected area. After the swelling goes down, then a full cast might be applied to the limb.
3. Physical Therapy- Physical therapy is often used to treat athletic injuries, as well. Your treatment program may include hands-on therapy and therapeutic exercises, during which you gradually strengthen the muscles. You may also work into stretching exercises, done several times a day. Hands-on treatments or therapies like electrical stimulation and ultrasound can help eliminate pain and restore muscle and joint function.
4. Steroid Injections- Corticosteroid shots, also called steroid shots, are frequently used to treat athletic injuries because they work quickly to reduce inflammation and pain. The shots usually comprise a local anesthetic and corticosteroid medicine. You can receive corticosteroid shots at your Peachtree City-area podiatrist office, for the treatment is only supplied by licensed physicians.
5. Surgical Procedure- Most athletic injuries do not require surgery, however, severe cases, such as badly broken bones, may require this treatment approach.
An athletic injury can affect your daily activities and make your life miserable. If you have an athletic injury, call Ankle & Foot Centers of Georgia at (770) 952-5300 to schedule an appointment in Marietta, GA. Our podiatrists are proud to serve the patients of Peachtree City, and they can help you too!