Engaging in sports gives a number of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. However, it doesn’t come without a cost. Sports like running, basketball and soccer can take a toll on one’s body — having physical injuries is a common occurrence among sports enthusiasts. Any foot surgeon London or ankle specialist London can attest to this one.
In this particular article, we’re narrowing it down to the most common foot-and-ankle sports injuries. In the latter part, we’re also tackling ways on how to prevent having or developing such conditions.
Sprained ankle. One of the most common foot-and-ankle injuries, sprained ankle includes the twisting of your foot — causing damage to the ligaments in your ankle. The degree of this condition can vary from person to person. While some require simple remedies, some need to be treated with surgery.
Achilles tendinitis. Attaching your calf muscle to your heel is the largest tendon in your body: the Achilles’ tendon. When you overuse this tendon, it can lead to its inflammation. Achilles tendinitis is common among marathon runners.
Stress fractures. When you stress or push yourself too hard when it comes to your sports of choice, you can actually gradually develop tiny cracks in your bones leading to the so-called stress fractures.
Neuroma. This one is characterized by experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, encountering tingling and numbness. This happens when there is a pinched nerve in your foot. According to an ankle specialist London, this one can be addressed via non-surgical treatment like wearing supportive footwear.
Turf toe. People who are into sports where they need to sprint or push off from their toes are more likely to have this injury. Turf toe is a condition when your big toe gets hyperextended, further spraining the main joint of the affected toe.
Plantar fasciitis. Plantar fascia refers to the band of tissues that run along the bottom for your foot — from the heel to the forefoot. Plantar fasciitis takes place when this part of your body absorbs too much stress. Around two million are being treated with this condition; the treatment includes getting sufficient rest and having ice and physical therapies.
Preventing Foot and Ankle Injuries
While foot and ankle injuries are common in the world of sports, any foot surgeon London or ankle specialist London will agree that with proper care — the risk of having these injuries can be reduced.
First and foremost, make sure to properly warm-up before doing any kind of sports activity. Moreover, you have to condition your muscles (i.e. Build their strength and mobility) to prepare it for the sport you will be engaging in. Take note that some sports require more muscle conditioning than others.
To protect your feet and ankles, industry experts also recommend using appropriate athletic shoes. Sports enthusiasts are also advised to replace their shoes every six months.
Last but not the least, you have to be careful not to step on uneven surfaces. Doing so will prevent you from hurting your feet, ankles, and other parts of your body.
Are you looking for a foot surgeon London or an ankle specialist London? Contact Martin Klinke today and book an appointment with a respected expert in his field.
