Friday, November 30, 2012

Amendola Plays Against Cardinals, Still Has Foot Injury

English: Danny Amendola, a player on the Saint...
English: Danny Amendola, a player on the Saint Louis Rams American football team. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
St. Louis Rams wide receiver Danny Amendola was a surprise member of Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals, especially since he's been suffering from a foot injury.
Amendola left the game against the New York Jets on November 17th in the second quarter when he twisted his foot awkwardly and hobbled off the field. Before leaving the game he recorded four catches for 16 yards against the Jets.
Amendola had just returned to active status during the Jets game after missing three games with a collarbone injury. He was kept out of practice all week, and was listed as doubtful on the final injury report.
During Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Amendola got one catch, and it was a big one, for 38 yards. Noticeably limping in pre-game warm-ups, Amendola had little trouble beating William Gay down the sideline in his second-quarter grab, but didn't look like a player who should have suited up.
Coach Jeff Fisher said Danny Amendola has a chance to get back on the practice field this week. It's an encouraging sign that Amendola emerged from his seven snaps during Week 12 without a setback. "He's a little sore, but he's got a chance to get back on the practice field. He's healing, but it's going to take time until he gets back to 100%," said Fisher.
Amendola may become a major player in the 2013 NFL free agency period if the two sides can't reach an agreement on his contract situation. He is an outstanding player, but has been injury plagued during his four year NFL career, appearing in 39 of 64 potential games.
Provided Amendola doesn't aggravate his heel anymore this week during practices, he should be in better condition for Week 13 against the San Francisco 49ers.
If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Thursday, November 29, 2012

Jelani Jenkins Breaks Foot, May Miss FL Bowl


Florida Gators linebacker Jelani Jenkins will likely miss Florida's bowl game because of a broken foot.
Jenkins sustained the broken fifth metatarsal in his right foot during Saturday's 37-26 win over Florida State and had surgery on his foot Monday.
Jenkins has been in nine of Florida's 12 games so far this season, having 29 tackles, 19 of them unassisted, with a pair of quarterback sacks and an interception. Jenkins saved the Gators from an upset by Louisiana-Lafayette, when he returned a blocked punt 36 yards for the game-winning touchdown with two seconds remaining.
Coach Will Muschamp said Jenkins "probably will miss the bowl game. Not totally certain." Muschamp said Jenkins will need four to six weeks of recovery time from his surgery. Jenkins missed three games earlier this season with a fractured right thumb and and hamstring injury
Jenkins is a fourth-year junior from Olney, MS and should be ready to return for spring training, if he doesn't forgo his senior year for the 2013 NFL draft.
Freshman Antonio Morrison will have a chance to start in Florida's next game, which is the Sugar Bowl on January 2nd.
If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Charles Tillman Has Chipped Bone In Foot

This past Sunday's game was a tough injury day for the Chicago Bears, who lost wide receiver/kick returner Devin Hester (concussion), guards Lance Louis (knee sprain) and Chris Spencer (knee sprain), and running back Matt Forte (ankle) to injuries. Among the casualties was Charles Tillman, who has a chipped bone in his right foot.
Vikings tight end Rhett Ellison stepped on Tillman's foot during a third-and-short play in the second quarter. Tillman exited the game, received medical attention, re-entered, and left again. Tillman attempted to re-enter several times as he waited anxiously on the sidelines. If the score had been closer (the Bears won the game 28-10) Tillman probably would have returned. He was seen leaving Soldier Field with a walking boot on his right foot.
When asked what the medical staff said about his injury, Tillman replied "Nothing." If Tillman has a chipped bone in his foot, he is going to need to be careful- a relatively small problem like this can turn into something much larger, especially if he aggravates it by spending too much time on his foot.
The injury isn't severe, says Bears expert Brad Biggs, who talked with The Mully and Hanley Show. "When Tillman left the game and was going toward the locker room, and he saw the assembled media, he started to pretend to be limping. He's walking just fine and then he starts dragging his leg to put on some kind of show. You would hope that he's not going to be too bad as well," said Biggs.
Tillman hasn't missed a game since 2009, when he was on the injured reserve with a bruised lung and fractured ribs. The veteran cornerback transformed himself this season into a potential defensive player of the year candidate after forcing four fumbles against the Tennessee Titans on November 4th. Tillman recovered an Adrian Peterson fumble during Sunday's win and played 18 snaps on defense, had two tackles and a pass defense.
If Tillman is unable to play during this Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks, Kelvin Hayden would take his place at cornerback.

If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Florida QB Driskel Out With Ankle Sprain


Florida quarterback Jeff Driskel did not play in Saturday's game against Jacksonville State and may possibly miss the regular season finale game against rival Florida State due to a right ankle sprain.
Driskel injured his ankle when he was tackled by Louisiana-Lafayette defensive tackle Jalen Fields late in the third quarter of the Gators 27-20 win.
"We're just working through this week," seventh-ranked Gators head coach Will Muschamp said last week. "Whenever you deal with an ankle, it's a day-to-day process. It's a situation that continues to improve. How much it'll improve into next week, I have no idea at this time. We feel like he'll be available, but who knows?"
Sophomore Jacoby Brissett will made his second start Saturday. In his previous start, he completed 6 of 8 passes for 64 yards and a game-tying touchdown pass to wide receiver Quinton Dunbar.
"Got a lot of confidence in Jacoby," said Muschamp. "It's his opportunity and I'm looking forward to seeing him play."
The 6-foot-4 237 pound Driskel started the last nine games at quarterback, completing 64.8 percent of his passes for 1,324 yards and 10 touchdowns with three interceptions. He is the Gators second-leading rusher with 424 yards and four touchdowns on 97 carries.
If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Is Running Barefoot On the Treadmill Bad For You?

English: barefoot running
English: barefoot running (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Barefoot running, as we have reported in the past, is a growing trend with equal benefits and disadvantages. Positive benefits have been reported as greater foot strength and a decreased risk of injury, as well as a lighter style of running which results in quicker running times. The January 2010 issue of "Nature" suggests that a change in the strike point on the foot while running barefoot can cause more harm than good. However, starting to run barefoot on a treadmill may be a good place to start.
Modern running shoes have increased cushioning and arch support which effectively place the foot on bed rest. The intrinsic muscles of the foot weaken, and thus the tendons of the foot lose tension and the arches fall. Barefoot running on a treadmill works the muscles of the foot and therefore absorbs an increased load. Working the muscles naturally, like through walking, can also strengthen the foot and ankle muscles.
In a study performed at the Institute of Bio-mechanics and Orthopaedics at Cologne, Germany, researchers found that barefoot runners land on the forefoot. Shod runners rear-strike, caused by the positioning of the cushioning in modern running shoes. Movement analyses show that forefoot and barefoot runners generate smaller forces than their shod running counterparts. Smaller forces on the foot may potentially protect the feet and lower leg from typically running impact injuries.
Jumping into barefoot running can be a great shock on your feet and ankles, but there are other risks as well. The shock and stress to your lower extremities can cause Achilles tendonitis calf strain and plantar fasciitis. Blisters are also a result of running barefoot because the skin on the feet can be very delicate. Think before you begin: If you don't have any foot problems currently, why should you switch to barefoot running? Are you just joining a fad?
Starting on a treadmill allows you to experience a new running style and transform your running strike. You will also begin on a softer surface that allows for a lower injury risk. Remember: Start slowly!
If you are a barefoot runner and have been experiencing pain, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
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Brentford's O'Connor Out Six Months

Brentford soccer (football in Europe) club captain Kevin O'Connor could be out for the season after being ruled out for six months with an ankle and leg injury.
The 30 year old Irishman has made 483 appearances for The Bees and missed a similar period of time last season with a foot injury. He was injured in last Tuesday's 1-0 win against Portsmouth and carried off the field in a stretcher.
Brentford boss Uwe Rosler admitted the win over Portsmouth came with a price: "You see me now very emotional because Kevin O'Connor doesn't look very good. He stood with foot in the ground and another player went over with the full force. It wasn't a bad tackle; it was an accident and he went over his ankle and didn't feel very good after."
Brentford's head of medical Neil Greig told the team's website: "Kevin will need to undergo surgery to repair the damage. It is anticipated to be a six-month period of rehabilitation. Having worked closely with Kevin throughout his rehabilitation from long-term injury last season, I have absolute belief that he will return from this disappointing setback to play a key role for Brentford Football Club. Kevin demonstrates a first-class attitude to recovery and we will offer him every support in order to complete his recovery."

If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Monday, November 19, 2012

Soccer's Jack Wilshere Recovered From Foot Injury


Jack Wilshere was branded England's soccer savior when he broke into the Arsenals first team two years ago and then he suffered a serious foot injury that sidelined him for 17 months.
The 20 year old, hailed as England's next big star, made his comeback against QPR last month and has played two more games for the Gunners. Wilshere has been encouraged by the way he has played since he came back.
"I'm quite surprised, actually. When I first played in the (under 21's), I was really rusty, and I think it was clear for everyone to see. Everyone was just being nice to me saying 'you played well.' Now I'm feeling better and better as every game goes on. There's no hiding place when you're playing at the Emirates, at Old Trafford and you're in front of everyone. You have to be at a certain standard so you don't let your teammates and fans down," Wilshere told Arsenal Player.
"Mentally it has been tough because you question yourself all the time. You go to the Emirates, you watch games and you think 'Has it got quicker? I don't remember it being this quick. Can I get back to this level that I was at before?' But I feel good now and hopefully, with a few more games, I can get back to my best."
Wilshere played 54 times for the club and country in the 2010-11 season. His confidence and creativity on the field drew comparisons to Paul Gascoigne, who captured English hearts for a decade.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger cautioned Wilshere, saying that he would need time to "get his burst back", and Wilshere concurs. "I know exactly what he means by that. The boss always says it to me when he's reminding me to do my gym work and train hard. It just means literally the first five yards. That was one of my strengths of my game- the first five yards to beat a player. He says it's slowly coming back so hopefully it will come back soon."
Wenger waited until right before the game against QPR to tell Wilshere that he was going to play. "I think the boss did it quite cleverly because maybe if he'd told me the day before, I'd have been a bit anxious and not slept well at all," Wilshere said. "I was just preparing to sit on the bench and hopefully come on at some point in front of the crowd. He told me at half ten (on the day of the game that ) he was going to start me. I was nervous, but I didn't have time to worry about it. I just went out there and I thought I did quite well."
If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Sunday, November 18, 2012

Fou Fonoti To Redshirt Next Season

Michigan State offensive tackle Fou Fonoti suffered a season-ending foot injury two days prior to the September 15th home game against Notre Dame. He announced during an interview for "Spartan Football All-Access" that he would take a medical redshirt and return for the 2013 season.
Fonoti, a 6-foot-4, 296 pound second year player from Cerritos College, started the last 11 games of the 2011 season and first two games of the 2012 season at right tackle. He took the foot injury hard.
"It was really tough to get injured in a Thursday practice- a light workout gear to clean everything up. It was difficult to accept the fact that I wouldn't be playing in an important game against Notre Dame. I really struggled with it mentally; and had to accept the fact and reality that I might be out (of the lineup) for some time. It hurt because I felt like I let my teammates down."
However, Fonoti wasn't ready to let his senior year of playing for the Spartans pass by. "When I first got injured, I knew that at some point and time I'd have to weight my options. When I made the decision to transfer here from junior college, I thought of it as a two-year investment. I was prepared to deal with being so far away from my family in Southern California. So when this opportunity presented itself, I immediately thought about spending another year away from home, but I continued to pray about it. I talked to my girlfriend and her family as well as my mom and  my entire family. We discussed all the options. And as tough as it was, in my heart, I had a straightforward answer, 'I've got to come back.' When I signed that National Letter of Intent (in February 2011), I devoted my everything to being a Spartan, and I haven't fulfilled my expectations yet. I've decided to come back and look forward to competing with these guys again next season. I'm really excited about the 2013 season. I see this injury as a blessing in disguise."
Junior quarterback Andrew Maxwell is excited to be able to work with Fonoti next season: "Fou's decision to come back is huge for us in a lot of respects. He's obviously an experienced player, but also provides great leadership. Fou is one of the most well-liked and most-respected guys on the team, so he has a real presence in the locker room. Having him back in the locker room for another year is really going to give the team a boost. It's definitely a plus any time you have a lineman return with over a year of starting experience under his belt. He's battled in the trenches. Fou is a guy you can count on and trust to know what's going on and play a physical brand of football. When you have a veteran like that returning to the lineup, it adds a lot of confidence for the quarterback."
MSU head coach Mark Dantonio is pleased Fonoti will return next season. "Fou Fonoti is one of the emotional leaders for our football team. He's an excitable person that brings a lot of passion to the game. It's a tremendous advantage to have him back for another season, and we're excited about his decision. He'll be able to graduate and enhance his chances to play professional football. Fou can play a variety of positions on the offensive line, so he isn't locked into playing tackle."
Offensive line coach Mark Staten agreed with Dantonio: "Fou's ability to stay an extra year will help us tremendously. He has game experience, a high football IQ, and great leadership ability. Fou has the unique ability to pull the best out of everyone around him. He will help make the 2013 season very special. It's been tough, very tough for Fou to watch the majority of this season from the sidelines. Fortunately he's been able to travel to a few road games. His presence around the team is invaluable. He's been very helpful in meetings as well. Fou can help the younger guys understand why certain things are happening on the defensive line, like adjusting to fronts and blitz packages. He also can help them understand why the double team has to stay on as long as it does or when the timing is right to come off a lineman and take on a linebacker."
The Spartans have had a mediocre season this year without Fonoti, going 5-5. Their final game of the season  is November 24th against Minnesota. "(Linebacker) Max Bullough always encourages us to pursue greatness, and we have to develop the attitude that we won't be denied. It's been difficult to watch my teammates go through this grind and all those nail-biting losses, but we remain positive. A lot of teams face adversity during the course of a season, but the important thing is how a team responds. I feel like we have ingredients to have a great team next year. Guys will remember how this season feels and all of the struggles, but we'll be positioned to take a huge step forward," Fonoti said.
If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Saturday, November 17, 2012

Duke's Williams Has Frustrating Foot Injury

Last year the Duke Blue Devils girl's basketball team was hit hard with injuries, and this year was supposed to be different. This preseason has proven challenging in that All-American Elizabeth Williams has not recovered fully from a stress fracture suffered in March.
Returning this year are four starters who helped the team make it to the Elite Eight, so expectations for the girl's basketball team are high. Head coach Joanne P. McCallie's team has been ranked No. 3 this year as well, adding to the potential. The Blue Devils were the preseason pick to win the ACC, but that was dependent on the 6-foot-3 sophomore, last year's National Freshman of the Year, being healthy and ready for action.
In her freshman year Williams averaged more than 30 minutes a game, the second highest on the team. She spent the summer between her senior year of high school and college playing for USA basketball, where she won a gold medal as a member of the 2011 U-19 team.
"I played USA basketball through the whole summer and once I got back I went straight into preseason. I never rested my body for an extended period of time," said Williams.
Things finally caught up to Williams before the NCAA tournament when she was diagnosed with the stress fracture in the tibia bone of her right leg. Even though she was in pain, Williams played, averaging 11.5 points and 28.3 minutes during four games.
During this summer, however, Williams rested her injury, not playing basketball when the team traveled to France and Italy. She instead used the time to strengthen her leg and avoided putting pressure on it.
"I still lifted weights with the team, since I couldn't do a lot of basketball stuff. In rehab I did a lot of hip and ankle strengthening so that I wouldn't be putting too much stress on my shin, and I would be able to learn how to use my hips more."
While all that strengthening did a lot of good physically for Williams, her injury has not recovered as quickly as the team would have hoped. The average stress fracture can take anywhere from four to 12 weeks to heal, but it has been seven months for Williams.
"I'm day-to-day right now. Depending on my pain level is how much I'll practice. It hurts at points where I put a lot of pressure on it, jumping, if I lean too much in one step, things like that," said Williams.
The sophomore played 15 minutes in the preseason Blue-White scrimmage. After the game McCallie reported the soreness in Williams' leg had come back and she would be sidelined indefinitely.
"It felt good playing, honestly. The pain usually comes if I play in practice for a couple of days in a row without rest and that's when I start feeling the soreness," said Williams.
"She's been hurt and trying to strengthen that bone, but it keeps popping up. It's been seven months since the stress fracture, and it would have been better if she had broke it," said McCallie.
In the meantime, the Blue Devils have to sideline their star player with the hopes that she will recover in time for conference play. At the moment, extended practice causes pain.
McCallie doesn't believe that more rest is the key to Williams' recovery. "She gets oodles of rest. She hasn't been through a full practice in over seven months. The key is I've got to be honest to Elizabeth. I can't let her play at 40%... She's just got to simply see what she can do."
We'll see in the coming months how long Williams' foot injury takes to recover and how it affects the season. Will Duke continue to hold that No. 3 ranking? Sounds to us like something more serious is going on with her injury.
If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Friday, November 16, 2012

Celtics' Rajon Rondo Suffers Ankle Sprain

Rajon Rondo suffered an ankle sprain Wednesday night in the Celtics' 98-93 victory of the Utah Jazz.
The Celtics' point guard was injured when he had his shot blocked by Marvin Williams with 4:55 left in the third quarter. He hobbled off to the bench and spent some time in the locker room before returning to watch the rest of the game from the sidelines.
Coach Doc Rivers did not have Rondo continue in the game because he felt "iffy" and said "I just felt like it is too early in the season to take that chance."
Leandro Barbosa took Rondo's place, scoring 16 points on 6-for-8 shooting.
"It's going to happen," Rivers said. "He's not going to play all 82, I doubt. It'd be nice. You know how I think, guys, the next guy, just somebody has to step up and we have to figure it out. And tonight was a great example that we did that."
Rondo declined to talk to the media after the game. Previous to his injury, Rondo picked up his 10th assist, setting up Paul Pierce for a 3-pointer, extending his streak of double-digit assist games to 32, the third-longest in the NBA.
At the time of writing, it was unclear the extent of Rondo's injury, which could be cause for concern for the Celtics. Rondo was averaging 15.4 points, 12.9 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. He is playing at a very high level right now, averaging more than 40 minutes per game. He is currently listed as day-to-day.

If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Thursday, November 15, 2012

Brek Shea Has Foot Surgery

FC Dallas midfielder Brek Shea underwent successful surgery last Thursday to remove a sesamoid bone from his right foot. The operation is expected to keep Shea out of action for at least three months.
Shea had suffered an initial turf toe injury in Vancouver in April, and had been plagued by it all season. But according to head coach Schellas Hyndman they recently discovered something more serious was wrong.
"I think about a week ago they diagnosed that there was a split in one of the bones that's underneath his toe. I think it took an amount of wear and tear on it to show," said Hyndman.
"Once we presented that to him a couple days ago, our doctor looked at it and had confirmation from three other foot specialists that the best thing to do was to remove it. So we did that yesterday, and from everything I understand it was very successful."
Hyndman said the normal strategy for turf toe is to rest it, but when the injury kept bothering Shea six months later, the team realized there was something more than just a turf toe problem.
"If you've had plantar fasciitis, it is so painful and people will give you home remedies to take care of it and nothing works... finally it goes away, but it takes so long. This was one of those things that will not go away, not for a professional athlete."
The 22 year old had three goals and two assists in 21 games for FC Dallas before missing the final month with an abdominal strain from the foot injury. He had 11 goals in 2011 and was nominated for the MLS MVP award. Shea had 15 caps with the U.S. National Team, but missed two World Cup qualifiers with the injury. The final round of the World Cup starts in February, about the time Shea is expected to return.
Hyndman isn't looking to rush their burgeoning star back before he's ready and healthy, however.
"That's what we hope," Hyndman said about Shea returning for the preseason. "But the thing you never want to do is push and then all of a sudden he gets re-injured."

If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Timberwolves Lose Nicola Pekovic To Foot Injury

The Minnesota Timberwolves has seen a rash of injuries and its lineup in a state of flux and was hoping for an injury-free game Monday night against the Dallas Mavericks.
It didn't happen.
Center Nikola Pekovic became the latest Timberwolves player to have an injury Monday night when he exited late in the third quarter with a sprained left ankle and didn't return. He had turned his ankle when he stepped on the foot of Dallas guard Vince Carter running down the court with 2:46 left in the quarter. He was down on the court for several minutes before hobbling to the locker room. The 6-foot-11 Pekovic is the team's leading scorer and had scored 20 points before leaving the game.

Wolves coach Rick Adelman doesn't think Pekovic's injury is serious. "I don't know when it's going to stop. Hopefully, we can get some guys back and maintain the same energy level we've had."
The Timberwolves dressed only 10 players Monday night and were without Kevin Love, Ricky Rubio, Chase Budinger (scheduled to have surgery on his knee), Brandon Roy, and J. J. Barea. Even without key players, the Wolves kept the Mavericks to a season-low 36.3 shooting percent and never led after the opening three minutes. The Wolves (5-2) are off to their best start since 2001-02. "I credit our character," said Wolves forward Andrei Kirilenko. "Nobody really looks down and nobody feels sorry. Everybody just keeps coming out and trying to give their best. I think as a team, we played good team defense." 

If you are are suffering from a sports related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Will Stephen Curry Ever Recover?

Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Stephen Curry missed 40 games during the 2011-12 season with multiple sprained ankles and no other injury in the NBA seems to be as perpetual as his ankles.
The Golden State Warriors need their star player to be absolutely healthy in order to stay competitive. The Warriors seem to be one-trick ponys, lighting up the offense each night, but allowing the Bobcats to score 112 points, hence why Curry is so important.
Curry is not a defensive specialist, but can make game-turning steals, shut down opposing players with his speed for stretches, and provide offensive efficiency. When Curry played last season he shot 49 percent from the field- a great statistic. He is a young player with offensive talent, can score, and not kill a team's field goal percentage.
That is, if Curry can keep his ankles healthy. He sprained his twice surgically repaired right ankle in a preseason exhibition game again and Warriors fans should be worried. Curry didn't miss 40 straight games last season- he missed them over the span of the entire season, which is worse. He kept injuring his ankles and coming back, never playing more than a few games in a row. Curry was even labeled "injury-prone" because this is not a new issue.
The answer is that Curry will probably never be entirely healthy. He's 185 lbs. and as a player, makes a lot of cuts and runs in transition very quickly. He has stick-thin legs and doesn't have a physique that can last for 82 games.
Curry signed an extensive with the Golden State Warriors in early November for a four-year contract, $44 million. "I just thought the deal was too good to pass up. Obviously I've been through a lot of injuries the last year and a half with my ankle, but it's back strong and ready to go," said Curry.
Curry had arthroscopic surgery in April and surgery to repair a tendon in the ankle the summer of 2011. He may have commanded a higher price if he had been healthier last season, but Curry was pleased with the deal. "Right now, for them to offer me what they did after what I've been through says a lot about one, where my ankle is now but, but two, just their faith in what I can do. Obviously things would have been different playing out the year, me playing well, next year I don't know what the numbers would have been, but that's not even a question I'm asking myself right now."

If you are are suffering from a basketball related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
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Kickboxing and Foot Injuries

English: girls kickboxing in pe
English: girls kickboxing in pe (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
For many people, kickboxing is not just a great workout, it's a way to learn self-defense and empower yourself. Martial arts has a lower risk of injury to the foot compared to other contact sports, but foot injuries still occur. Repeated ankle sprains or trauma in kickboxing can damage the peroneal tendon, a common injury.
According to a June 2005 article in Podiatry Today, foot and ankle injuries account for 10% of all martial arts injuries. This is because martial arts involves some form of kicking, which can lead to sprains or blunt force trauma. Sprains are the primary cause of tendon damage, and these injuries happen when the student has done a move incorrectly. Martial arts requires flexibility and balance and performing a kick without the proper balance can cause instability in the supporting foot.
The two peroneal tendons run side-by-side behind the outer ankle bone. One peroneal tendon attaches to the outer part of the midfoot and the other attaches under the foot near the inside of the arch. The main function of the peroneal tendon is to stabilize the foot and ankle and protect them from sprains.
Peroneal tendon injuries may be acute (occurring suddenly), or chronic (developing over a period of time). People with high arches are at risk for developing peroneal tendon injuries. Types of peroneal tendon injuries include: tendonitis, tears, and subluxation.
Tendonitis is an inflammation of one or both tendons. The inflammation is caused by activities involving repetitive use of the tendon, overuse of the tendon, or trauma (such as an ankle sprain). Symptoms of tendonitis include:
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Warm to the touch
Acute tears are caused by repetitive activity or trauma. Immediate symptoms of acute tears include:
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Weakness or instability of the foot or ankle.
As time goes on, these tears may lead to a change in the shape of the foot, in which the arch may become higher.
Degenerative tears are usually due to overuse and occur over long periods of time- often years. In degenerative tears, the tendon is like taffy that has become overstretched until it becomes thin and eventually frays. Having high arches also puts you at risk for developing a degenerative tear. The symptoms of a degenerative tear may include:
  • Sporadic pain (occurring from time to time) on the outside of the ankle
  • Weakness or instability in the ankle
  • An increase in the height of the arch
Subluxation- one or both tendons have slipped out of their normal positions. In some cases, subluxation is due to a condition in which a person is born with a variation in the shape of the bone or muscle. In other cases, subluxation occurs following trauma, such as an ankle sprain. Damage or injury to the tissues that stabilize the tendons (retinaculum) can lead to chronic tendon subluxation. The symptoms of subluxation may include:
  • A snapping feeling of the tendon around the ankle bone
  • Sporadic pain behind the outside ankle bone
  • Ankle instability or weakness
Early treatment of a subluxation is critical, since a tendon that continues to sublux (move out of position) is likely to tear or rupture. Therefore, if you feel the characteristic snapping, see a podiatrist immediately.
Because peroneal tendon injuries are sometimes misdiagnosed and may worsen with proper treatment, prompt evaluation by a foot and ankle surgeon is advised. To diagnose a peroneal tendon injury, the surgeon will examine the foot and look for pain, instability, swelling, warmth, and weakness on the outer side of the ankle. In addition, an x-ray or other advanced imaging studies may be needed to fully evaluate the injury. The podiatrist will also look for signs of an ankle sprain and other related injuries that sometimes accompany a peroneal tendon injury. Proper diagnosis is important because prolonged discomfort after a simple strain may be a sign of additional problems.
Treatment depends on the type of peroneal tendon injury. Options include:
  • Immobilization. A cast or splint may be used to keep the foot and ankle from moving and allow the injury to heal. 
  • Medications. Oral or injected anti-inflammatory drugs may help relieve the pain and inflammation.
  • Physical therapy. Ice, heat, or ultrasound therapy may be used to reduce swelling and pain. As symptoms improve, exercises can be added to strengthen the muscles and improve range of motion and balance.
  • Bracing. The surgeon may provide a brace to use for a short while or during activities requiring repetitive ankle motion. Bracing may also be an option when a patient is not a candidate for surgery.
Surgery may be needed to repair the tendon or tendons and perhaps the supporting structures of the foot. The podiatrist will determine the most appropriate procedure for the patient's condition and lifestyle. After surgery, physical therapy is an important part of rehabilitation.

While no contact sport is ever without injury, you can take several precautions. Talk with you or your child's doctor before beginning any kickboxing or martial arts exercise regimen to identify any risk factors you may have. Make sure to stretch out before and after class- most tendon injuries occur because of a lack of flexibility. Finally, if you or your child is injured, stop immediately and seek medical attention.
If you are an athlete and are experiencing foot pain, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Medicine Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington
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Monday, November 12, 2012

Tennis's Elena Baltacha Foot Surgery

Elena Baltacha is contemplating whether to continue her tennis career while recovering from a successful surgery on a bone spur in her right ankle.
The 29 year old former British number one women's tennis player said in July she was going to take off six months to recover from her injury, and in October posted pictures on Facebook of her foot in a cast.
"I had successful surgery on my right foot to remove a tiny piece of bone that was causing a lot of problems around my ankle. It looks likes I'll be on crutches for a few weeks, but, after that, there'll be no stopping me."
Baltacha, now based in Ipswich, slipped to number 135 worldwide because of her inactivity after the Olympics. She is down to number four in Britain, behind Laura Robson, Heather Watson, and Anne Keothavong.
"I have had the problem for about five years, but this year has been the worst," Baltacha told BBC Sport. "I've missed quite a few tournaments and have been told that I have to have surgery."
Baltacha will do some preseason training in November and December before making her final decision to play in the circuit or to retire from tennis. She may instead dedicate her time to a tennis school she founded in Ipwich, Elena Baltacha Academy.
"If I miss the tennis life and want to get on a plane and give it another go, I will do that. But, if I decide that I want to dedicate my life to the academy, that's what I'll do.
If you are are suffering from a tennis related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
Visit our website, like our page on Facebook, and follow my tweets on Twitter.


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Sunday, November 11, 2012

College Football Foot Injuries

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 24:  Ray Graham #1 ...
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 24: Ray Graham #1 of the Pittsburgh Panthers is tackled by Lo Wood #23 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the game on September 24, 2011 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)
College football has been hit with a lot of foot injuries so far this season.
  • Maryland quarterback Devin Burns is out for the season with a foot injury. He is the third quarterback for Maryland this season to suffer a season-ending injury. C. J. Brown tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in August and was replaced by Perry Hills who tore the ACL in his left knee in a loss to North Carolina. Burns replaced Hills and ran for a touchdown but is out with an injury to the middle of his foot.
  • Indiana State wide receiver Donald Spencer suffered a broken foot in the Sycamores' win at number one ranked North Dakota State. Head coach Trent Miles confirmed that Spencer had surgery on his foot and will miss the rest of the regular season. If Spencer is able to play against this season, ISU has a chance to make the playoffs. Miles said Spencer is expected to be out six to eight weeks. The junior is tops on the team in catches and second in receiving yards.
  • Florida tight end Colin Thompson is still recovering from surgery in August to insert a screw in his right foot. It was expected that it would take six to eight weeks for him to recover. The 6-foot-4 freshman from Warminster, PA was expected to play a key role in the 23rd ranked Gators this season. Coach Will Muschamp said of Thompson's injury: "[It's] unfortunate and disappointing." Thompson had initial surgery in the spring but Muschamp says the injury to the ankle never fully healed. 
  • Notre Dame cornerback Lo Wood is out this season with a ruptured Achilles tendon. He suffered the injury while backpedaling and turning to run in practice in the preseason. Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly said of Wood, "I feel terrible for him. He's a young man that we all wanted to see get this opportunity that he's worked so hard for. But I feel really good about the other five corners we have as well. We've got five scholarship corners that we believe can play the kind of football necessary for us to be successful." Wood underwent surgery and is not expected back until spring practice. 
  • Michigan State offensive tackle Fou Fonoti is out for the season after suffering a broken foot and underwent surgery. The senior is likely to be a medical redshirt candidate. 
  • St. John's senior defensive back/wide receiver Max Forster suffered a broken foot against Augsburg and is likely out for the season. He had started for the Johnnies all season at cornerback, though he started at free safety before being injured on the game's second play. Forster has 17 tackles, including one for a loss, an interception, and two pass breakups. 
  • Brown University tailback Spiro Theodhosi's college career is over. He had surgery to repair a right midfoot injury. Theodhosi suffered a Lisfranc injury when a University of Rhode Island player inadvertently stepped on his heel, while his foot was flexed. He had been the feel-good story of the college football season, returning to the lineup after missing two years with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in each knee. Theodhosi won the New England Gold Helmet award for gaining 120 yards at Hold Cross, rushed for 85 yards against Harvard and 142 yards at Georgetown and was being touted for the NCAA comeback player of the year award after averaging 115.6 yards in his first three games. 
  • Arkansas State senior lineback Alonzo Highsmith is out for the remainder of the season with a severe foot injury that included ligament damage. At the time of the injury, Highsmith had recorded three tackles, one solo, a sack, and defended a pass. For the season, he had led the team with 54 tackles and two sacks. Highsmith underwent surgery to repair the ligament damage. 
  • Also Arizona State fullback/lineback Kiero Small underwent surgery for a foot injury. There was no timetable for his return and the injury occurred in a non-contact play during practice. Small is in his second year at Arizona and is the starting fullback. 
If you are are suffering from a football related foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
Visit our website, friend and like our page on Facebook, and follow my tweets on Twitter.

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