Sports medicine & Related Injuries
Sports medicine is a specialized branch of podiatry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot and ankle conditions related to sports and physical activity. Podiatrists who specialize in sports medicine work with athletes of all ages and skill levels to help them perform at their best and avoid injury.
Sports medicine & Related Injuries
One of the primary goals of sports medicine is to prevent injury. Dr. Barksdale specializes in sports medicine and can conduct gait analyses and other assessments to identify areas of weakness or imbalance that may increase an athlete’s risk of injury. She can also provide guidance on appropriate footwear and orthotics to help athletes achieve proper alignment and support for their feet and ankles.
When injuries do occur, Dr. Barksdale can provide a range of treatments to help athletes get back to their sport as quickly and safely as possible. Common sports injuries include:

This condition is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It can cause pain and stiffness in the heel and arch of the foot.
This condition is caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It can cause pain and swelling in the back of the ankle.
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot or ankle that can be caused by repetitive stress or overuse.
Sprains occur when the ligaments that connect bones in the foot or ankle are stretched or torn. They can cause pain, swelling, and instability.
Dr. Barksdale may use a variety of treatments to address these and other sports-related foot and ankle conditions, including physical therapy, orthotics, and medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a torn ligament or other serious injury.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, a Dr. Barksdale can help you perform at your best and stay injury-free. By working with a Foot & Ankle Specialists of Indiana, you can develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you achieve your athletic goals.