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SPORTS MEDICINE
Orange County

No one likes being sidelined by injury, athletes perhaps least of all. At Newport Foot & Ankle Center, we understand. Having treated hundreds of athletes who play a wide range of sports, our approach to caring for our most active patients is heavy on getting you back in the game – with timely intervention and diagnosis, expert treatment and compassionate care.

Sports-Related Fractures and Sprains

There’s a significant amount of pressure and expectation placed on the feet and ankles of athletes. Lower extremity injuries, especially those relating to the ankle or foot, are among the most common sports injury causes that we see at our clinic for sports medicine in Orange County. Most of these injuries are sprains, but some involve fractures. Research indicates that the likelihood of re-injury once an ankle sprain has occurred is as high as 80% depending on the sport.

Sprains: Though not a broken bone, a sprain of the foot or ankle is still severe as it refers to the tearing of ligaments that connect bones inside a joint. Sprains are usually “graded” on a severity scale that ranges from 1-3. Grade 1 sprains are typically mild, resulting in tiny tears in the ligament affected or just overstretching of it. Grade 2 strains are considered moderate, and the ligament involved may be partially torn, with more severe stretching. Grade 3 sprains are severe and characterized by a completely torn ligament, rendering the foot unstable and unable to bear weight.

Fractures: In sports podiatry in Orange County, ankle fractures are usually classified into three types, and the type an athlete sustain often dictates the course of treatment taken by the doctor. Type A ankle fractures are generally stable and respond well to treatment with casting or bracing if they aren’t accompanied by any other fractured area. Type B fractures of the ankle may be stable or unstable, depending on whether ligaments were also involved in the injury. Type C ankle fractures are unstable and usually require open reduction and internal fixation to repair the damage.

Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine Treatments

Depending on the type of sports injury sustained and its severity, Dr. Haupt and his expert team at Newport Foot & Ankle Center are dedicated to helping you heal so that you can get back into the game as though you never left. Some of the treatment options we recommend to our most athletic patients include:

Orthotics: Orthotics that are specifically designed for athletes can help provide proper cushioning and shock absorption to the feet and ankle, while simultaneously helping to improve the biomechanics of the foot. In sports podiatry in Orange County, orthotics can be worn in a variety of athletic shoes, including cleats and can aid in protecting an injured foot from further damage.

Custom Bracing: When the fracture is non-displaced or minimally displaced custom bracing, or a cast can be an effective treatment option for foot or ankle fractures. Ultimately, the goal of this treatment is to promote the natural healing of the fracture while protecting the area from further damage or injury.

Arthroscopy: This surgical procedure involves a viewing camera with a fiber-optic tip that allows a surgeon to see inside the ankle to perform evaluation and treatment. In cases where debris from a chipped bone, torn cartilage or ligament damage has occurred, arthroscopy allows the surgeon to evaluate the extent of the damage and in some cases, to repair it at the same time. For some, this type of sports medicine in Orange County, can mean a quicker recovery, less trauma to the area involved, and fewer complications than an open or otherwise more involved surgical procedure.

Sports Medicine FAQs

When would I need to see a sports podiatrist?

You should see a sports podiatrist if you experience persistent foot or ankle pain, injuries, or discomfort during physical activities. This includes fractures, sprains, tendonitis, or issues with biomechanics that affect your performance.

What can I expect from my appointment?

During your appointment, the sports podiatrist will conduct a thorough examination, discuss your symptoms, and may order imaging tests. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan, which could include orthotics, physical therapy, or surgical options.

How do I treat an injury at home?

For minor injuries, use the RICE method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Avoid putting weight on the injured area, apply ice packs to reduce swelling, use compression bandages, and elevate the injury above heart level.

When would I need an emergency visit?

Seek emergency care if you have severe pain, inability to bear weight, visible deformities, or if the injury is accompanied by signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever.

Is a sports injury covered by insurance?

Most sports injuries are covered by health insurance. Coverage details can vary, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs. Our team can also help you understand your coverage.

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