Biomechanics / Sports Injuries Some foot pathologies arise from intrinsic instability of the lower limb. Careful Evaluation of the lower limb and gait analysis is a useful approach in all patients, not just athletes. Conservative management may involve the application of: Training modification for sportsmen and women Footwear adaptation Provision of function foot orthoses Bespoke, and semi-bespoke  orthotic devices are prescribed according to the patients condition and clinical need Devices are available for many individual sports, customised to the biomechanical demands of that sport. ALLSPORT   ALLSPORT.CLASSIC   ALLSPORT.FLEXIBLE   ATP-TENNIS   TENNIS   BASKETBALL   CYCLIST   FOOTBALL   GOLF   SKI-SKATE   SOCCER   SPRINTER   HEALTHFLEX   RUNNER'S.MOULD   MARATHONER   Many sports injuries of the lower limb benefit from evaluation and treatments from Podiatrist.   Shin splints (Periostitis) What are shin splints? Shin splints is the name given to pain at the front of the lower leg. The most common cause is inflammation of the periosteum of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone). The injury is an overuse injury and can be caused by running on hard surfaces, running on tip toes and sports where a lot of jumping is involved. If you over pronate then you are also more susceptible to this injury Symptoms include: Tenderness over the inside of the shin. Lower leg pain. Sometimes some swelling. Lumps and bumps over the bone. Pain when the toes or foot are bent downwards. A redness over the inside of the shin What can the athlete do about it? Rest. The sooner you rest the sooner it will heal. Apply ice in the early stages when it is very painful. Wear shock absorbing insoles in shoes. Maintain fitness with other non weight bearing exercises. Apply heat and use a heat retainer after the initial acute stage, particularly before training. See a Podiatrist or sports injury specialist who can advise on treatment and rehabilitation. What can a sports injury specialist or Podiatrist do? Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication e.g. ibuprofen. (Always consult a doctor before taking medication). Tape the ankle for support. - A taping worn all day will allow the shin to rest properly. Analyse running style for over pronation. Use sports massage techniques on the posterior deep muscle compartment but avoid the inflamed periosteum. Operate Important Anti inflammatory drugs along with rest and ice can help reduce inflammation, particularly in the early stages. However if the underlying causes such as tight muscles are not treated through stretching and sports massage techniques then the likelihood of the injury returning is higher.   PLANTAR FASCIITIS Plantar fasciitis is the most common foot problem. It is caused by activity, overuse and aging. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation due to repeated overstretching of the plantar fascia ligament (fat pad of the foot), usually at the point where the fascia is attached to the heel bone. This condition can also occur at the front of the foot. The pain usually decreases after walking. Contributing factors are: flat (pronated feet) high arches (supinated feet) increasing age sudden weight increase sudden increase in activity level running in sand hereditary factors Treatment: Home care: Stretching of the calf and plantar fascia (tendon in the arch of the foot) Periodically icing the affected area for 5 to 10 minutes, several times during the day Professional care: Physical therapy : Ice, Rest Orthotic devices Injection therapy : Steroid injections in conjunction with GP Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) Tension night splint - a device which keeps the foot dorsiflexed (pushed upwards) causing a passive stretch while one is sleeping