The spring season is an opportune time to renew your passion for sports and outdoor activities. Many athletes transition to spring activities in the competitive sports landscape without considering the risk of sports-related foot and ankle injuries. Since April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, the Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York staff would like to encourage athletes to take the necessary precautions to prevent injuries and stay on the field competing with their teammates. Continue reading to discover some valuable tips for preventing foot and ankle injuries this spring!
Preventing Spring Sports Foot and Ankle Injuries
While sports injuries can occur during any season, the transition from winter to spring sports can bring forward different concerns and potential injuries. These injuries involve soft tissues, such as plantar fasciitis, muscle strains, tendinitis, and ligament strains. Fractured or dislocated bones can also show up during this time. Here are some tips from our podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York for keeping your feet safe during spring sports participation:
- Warm Up – Many spring sports injuries are caused by cold, stiff muscles that can’t perform the required activities. Make sure to warm up before every practice or game to boost circulation to your feet and ankles and avoid injury.
- Proper Footwear – Wearing the right shoes for your specific sport and feet is imperative for injury prevention. Athletic shoes are designed for the particular movement of your sport and stability. However, poorly fitting shoes don’t provide adequate protection and support, increasing your risk for injury.
- Technique – Focusing on your technique and avoiding twisting movements and awkward landings can help you prevent muscle strains and broken bones.
Contact Us
At Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, we want spring athletes to stay safe while having fun. We can examine your feet and ankles before the start of the season to help you avoid problems that would make you more vulnerable to injuries. Should you suffer an injury this spring, our team can provide high-quality treatment to get you back on the field with your teammates. Contact our podiatry office today to request an appointment and put your best foot forward for the spring sports season!