Common Foot And Ankle Sports Injuries And How To Avoid Them

Getting involved in sports and other forms of physical activity is a great way to keep a healthy weight and improve your health as a whole. Having said that, it does raise the possibility of foot and ankle injuries. These injuries may be as mild as sprains or as serious as fractures, and they can happen to both professional players and those who participate in sports for enjoyment. In this post, we are going to talk about some of the most frequent sports injuries that affect the foot and ankle and how to avoid them.

Injuries To The Foot And Ankle That Are Common In Sports

Ankle Sprains

When the tendons that hold the ankle joint get stretched or torn, the result is a condition known as a sprained ankle. An ankle sprain is common in sports like basketball, football, and soccer, which require sprinting, jumping, and quick direction changes. Ankle pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight on the afflicted foot are all signs that an ankle has been sprained.

Tendinitis Of The Achilles Tendon

An Achilles tendon infection, that runs from the back of the calf down to the back of the heel bone, is known as Achilles tendonitis. This heel pain is frequent in sports that require sprinting, leaping, and rapid changes in direction, such as basketball, football, and soccer. Stiffness and pain in the heel and ankle are two of the most common symptoms of Achilles tendonitis.

Fractures Caused By Stress

Foot and ankle bones may have stress fractures, which look like tiny fissures in the bone. This injury is rather prevalent in athletic endeavors, particularly those that require a lot of running, leaping, and other high-impact activities. Pain and soreness in the region that has been impacted are two of the symptoms of stress fractures.

Plantar Fasciitis

Infection of the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissue that runs down the bottom of the foot, is a medical condition known as plantar fasciitis. This injury is rather prevalent in athletic endeavors that require a lot of running, leaping, and other high-impact activities. Pain and stiffness in the plantar fascia, which is located in the heel and sole of the foot, are two of the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

The Turf Toe

Turf toe is an injury that affects the ligaments of the big toe joint and can be caused by excessive motion in either the upward or the downward direction. This injury happens a lot in sports that are played on fake grass and require a lot of running and jumping. Turf toe is a painful condition that causes pain and swelling in the joint of the big toe, which can be very bothersome at times.

Splints In The Shins

Shin splints are a type of overuse injury that develops when the lower leg’s muscles, tendons, and bones are consistently stressed. Sports involving running and jumping are prone to this injury. Shin splints are characterized by pain and discomfort along either the inner or outside border of the shin bone.

How To Prevent Foot And Ankle Injuries

You can continue to participate in your favorite sports and activities while lowering your chances of damaging your foot or ankle if you take certain measures.

Put On The Appropriate Footwear

Foot and ankle problems can be avoided by wearing the appropriate footwear. Check that your shoes have a good fit, that they provide an adequate amount of support, and that they are suited for the activity that you will be engaging in.

Warm Up With Stretches And Cool Down With Stretches After Your Workout

Preventing injuries can be achieved by stretching before and after activity. Extend your feet, ankles, and lower legs.

Use Appropriate Form

Foot and ankle problems can be avoided by maintaining correct form. When playing sports, it is imperative that proper technique be utilized to prevent overuse injuries.

The Intensity And Period Of The Exercise Should Be Gradually Increased

Working harder and longer reduces injury risk. To prevent injuries caused by overuse, begin with a lower intensity level and gradually work your way up to a higher level.

Cross-Training

Cross-training is an effective way to prevent injuries caused by repeated movements. You may lessen the strain that you put on your feet and ankles, as well as your chance of injury, by participating in a variety of sports.

Pay Attention To The Signals That Are Being Sent To You By Your Body

If your feet or ankles hurt, stop and relax. Exerting oneself when uncomfortable may cause more serious damage.

Keep Your Weight At A Healthy Level

Being overweight puts additional stress on your feet and ankles, which may eventually lead to ailments in those areas. A reduction in the likelihood of foot and ankle problems may result from maintaining a healthy body weight.

Seek The Assistance Of Professionals

If your feet or ankles hurt, see a specialist. A foot and ankle surgeon or other doctor or physical therapist can help diagnose and treat the condition.

Contact The Foot And Ankle Injury Specialist In Eagle Mountain, UT

Are you looking for professional care and treatment for common sports injuries to your foot and ankle? Visit the Rogers Foot and Ankle Institute. Our team of highly trained and experienced doctors is committed to offering cutting-edge medical care.

We are committed to aiding you at every stage of the process, from diagnosis and treatment through rehabilitation and recovery, so that you can resume your usual, active lifestyle.

At Rogers Foot and Ankle Institute, we provide the best treatment for your unique needs. Make the first step toward a quick recovery by contacting us today at 801-756-4200 to schedule an appointment.