Neuroma
A neuroma, or Morton’s neuroma, is a nerve-related condition common in dancers and other athletes. It’s sometimes caused by tight-fitting or pointed footwear. Symptoms include:
- Feeling like you have a pebble inside your shoe, even when there’s nothing there
- Burning pain near the ball of the foot, which can extend into the toes, too
- Tightness or numbness in the toes
Morton’s neuroma can be treated with prescription medication and mild adjustments to physical activity, but more serious cases may require surgery. Left untreated, though, neuroma can cause long-term changes to your gait and may increase your lifetime risk of developing arthritis.
Shin Splints
Shin splints is a term referring to pain along the shin bone. These injuries are typically caused by high-intensity activity or sudden changes to a training regimen. Signs of this condition include tenderness or pain on the inner side of the shinbone, or mild swelling in and around the lower leg. Mild cases of shin splints can be treated with ice and rest, but you may need to see a podiatrist if at-home treatment doesn’t work or the pain worsens.
Stress Fractures
A foot and ankle stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone, often caused by overuse. It typically provokes localized pain in the foot, which grows worse with time. Most stress fractures can only be diagnosed with an X-ray. However, treatment is rarely invasive and may include little more than temporary immobilization of the affected foot.
Importance of Seeing a Podiatrist After Sustaining a Dance Injury
Dance injuries are painful and disruptive, but most can be successfully treated with proper podiatric care. However, ignoring a foot injury presents a risk of serious complications, including:
- Chronic pain
- Recurring ulcers and lesions
- Foot or ankle instability
- Permanent nerve damage
- Arthritis
You don’t have to take your chances with life-altering complications. At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, we strive to help our Caldwell neighbors overcome the challenges of an unexpected dance injury, providing experienced and compassionate care that makes your peace of mind a priority.
