It may still feel like summer, but high school and youth football teams are gearing up for a new season. Football is a very demanding sport that requires lots of running in addition to side-to-side cutting. Participants are often hurt when tackled by another player.
Common Football Foot and Ankle Injuries
Our feet are very strong and capable of bearing a lot of weight when standing, walking, and especially running. But they are vulnerable to injury too. Common foot and ankle injuries from playing football include:
Fractures
Turf toe
Sprains
Lisfranc fractures
Heel pain – plantar fasciitis
Contusions
Bone bruises
Achilles tendonitis
Stress fractures
Sesamoiditis
If your child suffers an injury while playing football, don’t let him play through the pain as significant damage can result. Please seek emergency medical help for a severe injury or come into our office for professional diagnosis and treatment.
You Can Reduce the Risk of Foot and Ankle Sports Injuries
Avoid overtraining, especially in hot weather.
Always have your child warm-up before any workout or game, along with a light stretch.
Make sure that your child slowly builds up her endurance and muscle strength gradually.
Wear the right protective gear and athletic shoes for every sport.
Replace shoes every six months or when the heels or tread wear down.
Minimize running on hard tracks or uneven surfaces.
Most importantly, contact us for any persistent foot or ankle pain. We are the experts, and we are here to help!
Let Us Help If Your Child Has Been Injured
Foot or toe pain is not normal! If you have any discomfort from arthritis, an injury or just from overuse, please call Michele Kurlanski, DPM at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Kurlanski offers expert and professional podiatry services in Cumberland County, Maine. Please call us today at 207-774-0028 to schedule your appointment in our Scarborough office.