June 2025

Pickleball may look low impact, but the quick stops, sharp turns, and constant movement can take a toll on the feet. Wearing shoes designed for the sport makes a noticeable difference. Pickleball shoes offer the kind of lateral support and sole stability that everyday sneakers often lack. This helps reduce the risk of ankle sprains, heel pain, and arch strain. The right pair can also absorb shock better and provide a firm grip on the court, lowering the chance of slipping. Breathable materials and a reinforced toe box add to both comfort and protection, especially during long matches or frequent play. Whether you are new to the game or playing several times a week, proper footwear can help you move with more confidence and less risk. If you are experiencing foot pain during or after playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe causes one or more toes to bend downward at the middle joint, often due to muscle imbalance or years of wearing tight or narrow shoes. This condition can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty in finding comfortable footwear. Early care focuses on relieving pressure and improving toe alignment. Switching to shoes with a deep, wide toe box can reduce friction and prevent further irritation. Toe cushions or splints may help straighten the toe and ease discomfort. Gentle stretching exercises can improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. If the toe becomes rigid or painful with movement, medical treatment may be needed. Options include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, or surgery, in more severe cases. If you are experiencing persistent pain or difficulty with footwear, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a common complaint in active children, especially those involved in sports. One of the most frequent causes is plantar fasciitis, which involves irritation of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. In children, this pain often appears first thing in the morning or after long periods of inactivity, then eases with movement. Poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or high activity levels can place extra strain on the heel. While plantar fasciitis is usually manageable with stretching, rest, and supportive shoes, conditions like growth plate inflammation may also need to be considered. Persistent heel pain should not be overlooked. If your child starts limping or complaining of discomfort in the heel, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to identify the cause and begin appropriate care.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal toenails often begin with discoloration, thickening, or a crumbly texture near the edge of the nail. Over time, the nail may become distorted, separate from the nail bed, or develop an unpleasant odor. This condition is caused by fungal organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or shared showers. It can spread from one nail to another or even to other people. Although not always painful, fungal toenails can become uncomfortable and make walking difficult. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medications, as well as professional trimming or debridement by a podiatrist. Laser therapy is another option some podiatrists may offer. Keeping feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas can help prevent reinfection. If your toenails show signs of fungal infection and do not improve with over-the-counter products, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for advanced treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.