Mr Ashtin Doorgakant talks about Lower Limb Injuries

Stay Active, Stay Safe: Understanding Foot and Ankle Injuries This Summer

As the summer season brings a surge in sporting events, outdoor adventures, and active lifestyles, it also marks a noticeable rise in foot and ankle injuries. From casual joggers to competitive athletes, many of us will experience strains, sprains, or more serious issues as we make the most of the warmer months.

In the latest Meet the Consultant podcast with Spire Cheshire Hospital, we’re joined by Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Ashtin Doorgakant, who shares expert insight into why these injuries become more common at this time of year—and what to look out for.

“People tend to increase their activity levels quite suddenly in summer,” explains Mr Doorgakant. “That might mean returning to sport, walking more, or taking on new activities, often without adequate preparation. The foot and ankle take a lot of strain, so they’re particularly vulnerable.”

Common (and Less Common) Injuries

During the podcast, Mr Doorgakant explores a wide range of conditions affecting the lower limb. These include familiar injuries such as sprains and fractures, but also more complex or less well-known problems like tendon injuries, Morton’s neuroma, and structural deformities such as flat feet or high arches.

Heel pain—often linked to plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon issues—is another frequent complaint, especially among those increasing their activity levels too quickly.

Spotting the Red Flags

While some minor injuries can be managed at home with rest and support, Mr Doorgakant highlights key warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored:

• Severe pain or inability to bear weight

• Significant swelling or deformity

• Persistent pain that doesn’t improve

• Numbness or tingling

• Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever

“If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to get it checked,” he advises. “Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in recovery.”

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Modern orthopaedic care offers a wide range of diagnostic tools and treatments. Depending on the condition, patients may benefit from physiotherapy, orthotics, or targeted injections. For more complex cases, surgical options—including minimally invasive and arthroscopic techniques—can provide effective solutions with shorter recovery times.

Mr Doorgakant emphasises that treatment is always tailored to the individual, taking into account lifestyle, activity level, and long-term outcomes.

Meet Mr Ashtin Doorgakant

Mr Ashtin Doorgakant is a highly experienced, fellowship-trained foot and ankle consultant with over five years in specialist practice. His work covers a broad spectrum of foot and ankle conditions, including bunions, toe deformities, arthritis, tendon disorders, fractures, and diabetic foot problems.

A keen sportsman, he has a particular interest in sports-related injuries, combining clinical expertise with personal insight into athletic demands.

Mr Doorgakant has performed more than 5,000 procedures and currently carries out over 300 operations each year, spanning both trauma and elective surgery. He offers a full range of surgical approaches, including open, minimally invasive, and arthroscopic techniques.

He graduated from Newcastle University in 2003, completed his surgical training in the Mersey region, and undertook a specialist fellowship at the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield. Since 2019, he has been a consultant at Warrington Hospital, where he also serves as audit and governance lead for the orthopaedic department.

In addition to his clinical work, Mr Doorgakant is actively involved in education, research, and quality improvement. He has authored over 25 peer-reviewed publications, contributed to book chapters, and is a faculty instructor on the European Trauma Course. He also completed the British Orthopaedic Association’s Future Leaders Programme and has a keen interest in human factors in surgery.

• Book a consultation with Mr Ashtin Doorgakant at Spire Cheshire Hospital