Foot problems in athletes.

Abstract

The primary care physician who cares for athletes encounters a variety of foot problems from skin maladies to deformities of the bone. As foot injuries can be totally debilitating, they are of especially great consequence to competitive athletes and must be diligently investigated to reach a proper diagnosis. In most cases the proper use of tape, foam, felt, metatarsal pads, and bars can easily solve what may be a perplexing problem. Occasionally, manufactured orthotic devices may be necessary. In all instances, athletes must be carefully advised on ways to treat and, more important, prevent foot problems.