Washington, Feb 25 (IANS) Athletes often misunderstand how serious an injury can be and try to rush back into competition without appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.

Some of the most difficult cases seen by foot and ankle surgeons are those in which athletes have continued to play after an injury.

Surgeons at the Annual Scientific Conference of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) are discussing athletic injuries and the importance of proper diagnosis, prompt treatment and full healing and rehabilitation.

ACFAS conference speaker and foot and ankle surgeon Robert Duggan says: 'Athletes often make the mistake of ignoring what seems like a minor foot or ankle injury because they are able to walk. Serious injuries can exist even when the foot or ankle is able to accept weight or pressure.'

One such injury involves the Lisfranc joint, on the top of the foot. It's possible to walk with a Lisfranc injury, but this can lead to damage to the soft tissues of the foot or even chronic conditions such as arthritis.

'Sometimes the pain of this injury is mistaken for an ankle sprain, but treatment for the two conditions is very different,' an ACFAS statement quoted Duggan as saying.

Playing with pain is never a good strategy for athletes. Prompt treatment is.

'Foot and ankle surgeons can determine the best course of treatment for the specific injury and help get athletes back into the game,' Duggan said.