Ankle and foot injuries are common among gymnasts throughout their careers because of the high impact on hard floors and repetition required in the sport. Research shows that over half of injuries incurred by gymnasts are in the hip, knee, ankle, and foot. Overuse injuries, like ankle sprains, are particularly prevalent among gymnasts. However, more severe injuries, such as tendon ruptures and fractures are common as well. Impact injuries to the feet and ankles come from tumbling, punching, bounding, sprinting, and/or landing in gymnastics. As might be expected, the forces of gymnastics generally range from 15 to 18 times one’s body weight. It can take several repetitions to master movements and short or awkward landings can lead to further injury. Also, their growth plates are wide open and vulnerable to injury. These young people are often asked to specialize in gymnastics and not participate in other sports, as well as train year-round which can have deleterious effects on their potential for injury. Prevention of injury in gymnastics can be helped by proper strength training, skill technique, and recovery. If you or your child participates in gymnastics, you might consider consulting with a podiatrist who can help develop a plan of prevention for foot and ankle injuries and be on board in case an injury of this nature is sustained.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of the podiatrists of JE Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Fleming Island and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
