Shooting for Health: Common Basketball Injuries of the Foot & Ankle

Asha Curry • March 24, 2023

Shooting for Health: Common Basketball Injuries of the Foot and Ankle


If you're a basketball player, you know that the sport can be tough on your feet and ankles. From sprains to stress fractures, there are a variety of foot and ankle injuries that can sideline you.

 

Some of these injuries include:

 

·        Ankle sprains - Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in basketball. They occur when the ligaments in your ankle are stretched or torn, often by a sudden twist or turn of the ankle. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the ligaments and tendons that support the ankle joint.

 

·        Plantar fasciitis - Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the bottom of your foot, particularly in the heel area. It's often caused by overuse, which is common in basketball. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and relieve symptoms.

 

·        Stress fractures - Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that develop from overuse. They're common in basketball players, particularly in the foot and ankle. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Treatment typically involves rest and immobilization, but surgery may be necessary in rare cases.

 

·        Achilles tendon rupture - The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body! It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and it can rupture or tear during a sudden movement or from overuse. Surgery is typically required to repair the tendon and restore normal function.

 

·        Lisfranc (midfoot) injury - A Lisfranc injury is a fracture or dislocation of the bones and/or ligaments in the middle of the foot. It is often caused by a sudden twisting motion or direct trauma to the foot. Treatment for a Lisfranc injury typically involves immobilization in a cast or walking boot, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and repair the ligaments.

 

Other (nonsurgical) treatments for these conditions may include:

·        Rest and ice

·        Physical therapy

·        Immobilization with a brace or cast

·        Anti-inflammatory medication

·        Orthotics to help support the foot and ankle

·        Injections of corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

 

At MJ Taranto Foot and Ankle Podiatric Surgeons, we're committed to helping our patients recover from these and many other injuries.

 

If you're dealing with an injury of the foot or ankle, don't wait to seek treatment. The sooner you get help, the better your chances of a full recovery.

 

Contact MJ Taranto Foot and Ankle Podiatric Surgeons today on 9250 1676 to schedule an appointment or click the link to book online.

 

 

In 2023 we are proud to support the Eastern Suns (Kalamunda and Districts Basketball Association).

Walking on Eggshells: Jane's Story

By Asha Curry • May 6, 2025
When Jane turned 58, she started noticing a bump forming on the side of her big toe. At first, it didn’t bother her much — just a little rubbing in her shoes. But over time, her bunion got bigger, and her second toe started curling upwards. It wasn’t long before even short walks became painful. She thought the pain was “just part of getting older,” but her knees and hips had started aching too. Why? Because her body was compensating for her sore feet. Jane's gait (the way she walked) had changed, putting extra pressure on other joints. She also started feeling less steady on her feet, especially when barefoot or in slippers. Finding shoes was another challenge — nothing seemed to fit comfortably anymore. Fashion took a back seat to function, and even then, her shoes still hurt by the end of the day. Eventually, Jane reached out for help. What Are Bunions and Hammer Toes? Bunions are bony bumps at the base of the big toe that cause the toe to shift out of alignment. Hammer toes are bent, curled toes that can develop from the pressure caused by bunions or from muscle imbalances. Both conditions can cause pain, difficulty walking, and trouble finding shoes that fit. What Can Be Done? Thankfully, Jane had options. Non-surgical treatment included: - Custom orthoses (prescription shoe inserts) to support her feet and reduce pressure. - Footwear advice to help find supportive, comfortable shoes. - Stretching and strengthening exercises to help improve balance and foot function. In some cases these options are not enough to provide symptom relief, and in Jane’s case, she explored surgical correction as her activities of daily living were being affected. Our Podiatric Surgeons explained the procedure clearly, and helped Jane understand how surgery could relieve pain, correct the deformity, and help her walk comfortably again. Ready to Take the First Step? If your feet are holding you back like Jane’s were, let’s talk. ✅ Book an appointment with one of our non-surgical podiatrists for a full assessment and personalised treatment plan. ✅ Or, if you’d like to explore surgical options, you can book a consultation with one of our Podiatric Surgeons, Julie Taranto or Michael Taranto.

What to Expect During Your Post-Operative Recovery

By Asha Curry • February 4, 2025
At MJ Taranto, we understand undergoing surgery can feel overwhelming, and we want you to know that at our clinic, your recovery and well-being are our top priorities. Our team is passionate about providing the best experience for every patient, and we go above and beyond to ensure you feel supported every step of the way. What Makes Our Care Unique? Personalised Attention: After your surgery, you won’t just see a nurse—you will see your surgeon for all your post-operative care. This means that every redress, check-up, and follow-up is handled by the person who knows your case best: your surgeon. Direct Access: We believe in open communication. If you have concerns or questions during your recovery, you can contact us personally, even outside of clinic hours. We’re here for you when you need us most. Dedicated Administrative Support: Our clinic has staff members who specialise in supporting our surgical patients. From the moment you decide to proceed with surgery, our dedicated administrative team will guide you through the entire process. They will help you prepare for surgery, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you feel confident and informed every step of the way. Full Investment in Your Recovery: Your recovery is a journey, and we are fully committed to helping you every step of the way. From pre-operative education to detailed recovery plans, we ensure you’re well-informed and confident in your progress. What to Expect During Recovery While every patient’s recovery timeline is unique, here are some general guidelines to help you plan: Initial Healing: The first few weeks are focused on wound healing and managing swelling. We will guide you on how to care for your surgical site and keep you comfortable. Gradual Return to Activities: Over the next few months, we’ll work together to help you safely return to your normal activities. This timeline will be tailored to your specific surgery and progress. Long-Term Recovery: Full recovery from most surgeries can take 12 to 18 months. During this time, we will monitor your progress and address any concerns that arise. Patience is key, but rest assured, we’re with you for the long haul. Pre-Operative and Post-Operative Communication Communication is at the heart of what we do. Before your surgery, we will provide you with detailed information about what to expect, including a recovery timeline. Knowing what lies ahead can make a big difference in how you approach your recovery. After your surgery, our lines of communication remain open. Whether it’s a question about your recovery, guidance on wound care, or simply reassurance, you can count on us to be available and responsive. Our Commitment to Excellence At our clinic, you’re not just another patient—you’re part of our care family. From the moment you walk through our doors to the final stages of your recovery, we are dedicated to providing one-on-one care that’s second to none. Your health, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities.