Pickleball, a paddle sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong is enjoyed by players of all ages. Its quirky name is said to have originated from a founder's dog or a rowing term referring to mixed teams. While the game offers excellent physical activity and sharpens mental focus, picklers must prioritize injury prevention. The fast-paced movements and quick turns in pickleball put stress on the ankles and lower legs, increasing the risk of sprains, strains, and overuse injuries. Without proper preparation, even experienced players can face setbacks. Warmup routines, such as calf stretches, ankle rolls, and light cardio, are important to loosen muscles and improve flexibility. If foot or ankle pain arises after play, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can ensure you stay active and injury-free for future matches.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A walking boot, also called a medical boot, is used to protect and stabilize the foot and ankle while recovering from injuries or surgery. This device supports healing by restricting unnecessary movement, which reduces the risk of additional damage. Walking boots are constructed from rigid materials, such as plastic, to immobilize the injured area, while adjustable straps ensure a secure fit. They also help redistribute body weight evenly across the foot, alleviating pressure on specific areas, including bones, tendons, and ligaments. By reducing strain, walking boots promote a more natural walking motion, allowing people to move with less pain. Common injuries that benefit from a walking boot include fractures, sprains, and tendon injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of your injury and determine if a walking boot is appropriate, ensuring it provides the correct level of immobilization and support for recovery. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options, which may include a walking boot.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are growths that appear on the soles of the feet, often causing discomfort when walking or standing. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, so places like swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers are common areas for transmission. Plantar warts can be identified by their rough, calloused appearance, sometimes with black dots in the center, which are tiny blood vessels. While some warts may go away on their own, they can take months or even years to resolve, and in some cases, may worsen or spread. Treatment options include cryotherapy, freezing, laser treatment, or minor surgical removal by a podiatrist. This type of doctor can determine the best course of action, ensuring the wart is treated effectively, and preventing infections or complications. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.