Sports Medicine for the Foot and Ankle in Kennewick, WA
Sports Medicine for Foot Injuries: Expert Care from Dr. Derrick McKay at Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates
Foot injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, often resulting from overuse, trauma, or improper footwear. At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Derrick McKay specializes in sports medicine with a focus on foot injuries. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to help you recover quickly and get back to your favorite activities.
Common Foot Injuries in Sports
Athletes are prone to various foot injuries, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing heel pain and discomfort.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Overuse of the Achilles tendon, leading to pain and swelling.
- Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in the bones of the foot, often caused by repetitive impact.
- Ankle Sprains: Stretching or tearing of the ligaments around the ankle.
- Metatarsalgia: Pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.
Symptoms of Foot Injuries
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of injury but often include:
- Pain and Tenderness: Especially during or after physical activity.
- Swelling and Bruising: Around the affected area.
- Difficulty Walking: Pain may make it hard to walk or run.
- Stiffness and Limited Mobility: Reduced range of motion in the foot or ankle.
Treatment Options
At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Derrick McKay offers a range of treatment options for sports-related foot injuries, tailored to each patient's needs.
These may include:
- Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice to the affected area to alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotic devices to provide support and relieve pressure on the foot.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Interventional Procedures: Techniques such as corticosteroid injections or shockwave therapy to target and alleviate pain.
Preventing Foot Injuries
Preventing foot injuries is crucial for athletes.
Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy:
- Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning.
- Warm-Up and Stretch: Always warm up and stretch before engaging in physical activity.
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in intensity or duration of exercise.
- Strengthening Exercises: Regularly perform exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in your feet.
Meet Dr. Derrick McKay, DPM, FACFAS
Dr. McKay was introduced to foot and ankle surgery when he began college and was immediately fascinated by the complexities of the foot and ankle. He frequently hears patients say, “I don’t notice my feet until they start bothering me.” Foot and ankle pain can be very debilitating and interfere with daily activities. Dr. McKay enjoys helping people literally get back on their feet and resume their normal lives.
While living in Chicago and Boston during his medical training, Dr. McKay still considered the Columbia Basin to be home. As a Kennewick native, it was important to him to return to the Tri-Cities to begin his career and give back to the community that has already given him so much.
Dr. McKay is board certified in Foot & Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery®. He is a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He attended podiatric school at Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and completed his residency at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Brighton, MA. His special emphasis areas include foot and ankle surgery, trauma, sports medicine, and pediatric and adult deformity corrections.
In his free time, Dr. McKay enjoys reading, playing tennis, hiking and camping, and spending time with his wife and two children.
Foot injuries can be a significant setback for athletes, but with the right care and treatment, it is possible to recover and return to your favorite activities.
At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, Dr. Derrick McKay and our team are committed to providing expert care for sports-related foot injuries.
If you have any questions or need more information about our services, please don't hesitate to contact us at 509-585-3622.
We look forward to helping you get back on your feet and perform at your best.
