• Glen Lakes, Florida
  • Phone: 3526841444
  • Fax: 3525150920

Both golfers and pickleball players are at risk for specific foot and ankle issues due to the repetitive movements, sudden directional changes, and prolonged standing that these sports require.  

Here are several reasons why they might need foot care:

1. Plantar Fasciitis

  • Cause: The repetitive impact of walking or running, especially on hard surfaces like a golf course or pickleball court, can strain the plantar fascia (a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot).
  • Symptoms: Heel pain, particularly first thing in the morning or after standing for a while.
  • Treatment: Podiatrists can provide treatments such as custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and in some cases, cortisone injections.

2. Achilles Tendonitis

  • Cause: Sudden starts and stops or overstretching during play can lead to inflammation in the Achilles tendon.
  • Symptoms: Pain or stiffness at the back of the heel or lower calf, particularly after exercise.
  • Treatment: Stretching, strengthening exercises, and the use of supportive footwear or orthotics to relieve strain.

3. Bunions (Hallux Valgus)Bunion on Foot

  • Cause: Tight-fitting shoes or irregular pressure from certain movements can cause a bunion, which is a bony bump at the base of the big toe.
  • Symptoms: Swelling, redness, and pain at the base of the big toe, especially when wearing shoes.
  • Treatment: Custom orthotics, toe spacers, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to correct the deformity.

4. Morton's Neuroma

  • Cause: Repetitive pressure on the ball of the foot, which can occur from improper footwear or excessive forefoot pressure during running or pivoting.
  • Symptoms: A burning or tingling sensation between the toes, often worsening with activity.
  • Treatment: Custom footbeds, corticosteroid injections, or changes in footwear can help alleviate pressure.

5. Stress Fractures

  • Cause: The high-impact nature of golf (especially with walking long distances) and pickleball (which involves quick lateral movements) can lead to stress fractures in the feet or toes.
  • Symptoms: Persistent pain, swelling, and bruising after activity.
  • Treatment: Rest, immobilization, and proper footwear.

6. Ingrown Toenails

  • Cause: Tight shoes or improper toenail trimming can lead to ingrown toenails, which may be aggravated by tight-fitting athletic shoes.
  • Symptoms: Pain, redness, and swelling around the toenail.
  • Treatment: Podiatrists may perform a procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail or provide advice on proper nail care and footwear.

7. Flat Feet or Overpronation

  • Cause: Flat feet or excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running can lead to strain on the arch and joints.
  • Symptoms: Foot and ankle pain, especially during activity.
  • Treatment: Custom orthotics and specific exercises to strengthen the foot's arch can help improve alignment.

8. Calluses and Corns

  • Cause: Repetitive friction or pressure from footwear or movement can lead to the formation of calluses and corns.
  • Symptoms: Thickened skin, often painful when pressure is applied.
  • Treatment: Professional removal of the buildup, better-fitting shoes, and use of foot pads to reduce pressure.

9. Turf Toe (Big Toe Sprain)

  • Cause: A sprain of the big toe, typically caused by the force of pushing off during quick movements (as seen in pickleball) or when the toe is forcibly bent upwards.
  • Symptoms: Pain at the base of the big toe, especially with pushing off or running.
  • Treatment: Rest, ice, and sometimes splinting or orthotics to limit movement.

10. Ankle Sprains

  • Cause: Sudden movements, twists, or falls can lead to sprains in the ankle, which are common in both sports, particularly pickleball due to its fast pace and lateral movements.
  • Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle.
  • Treatment: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.), followed by rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and mobility.

11. Foot Fatigue and Pain

  • Cause: Prolonged walking, standing, and sudden movements, common in both golf and pickleball, can lead to fatigue and general pain in the feet.
  • Symptoms: Soreness, aching, or a feeling of heaviness in the feet after long periods of activity.
  • Treatment: Proper footwear, foot massages, and rest to alleviate pain and discomfort.

12. Foot and Ankle DeformitiesCustom Shoe Orthotic

  • Cause: Overuse or improper footwear can exacerbate underlying deformities such as hammertoes, claw toes, or other misalignments.
  • Symptoms: Pain and difficulty in movement, especially during sports.
  • Treatment: Custom orthotics and possibly surgical intervention for more severe deformities.

Prevention and Treatment Options:

  • Custom Orthotics: Tailored to support the unique needs of athletes, these can address issues like arch support, alignment, and pressure distribution.
  • Proper Footwear: A podiatrist can guide players on selecting shoes that provide the necessary cushioning and support for the demands of their sport.
  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Regular foot stretches and strengthening exercises can prevent injuries and improve overall performance.

Podiatry care is critical for golfers and pickleball players to prevent minor issues from escalating into serious, game-ruining injuries. A podiatrist can offer personalized solutions, from footwear advice to rehabilitation techniques, ensuring players can stay active and perform at their best while maintaining foot health.