Sports injuries affecting the foot and ankle are more complex than other injuries in that they have a major impact on mobility. Foot and ankle injuries, unlike other sports injuries, not only sideline athletes; they can also impact other aspects of daily life.
Understanding the intricate anatomy, weight-bearing roles, and potential for long-term implications is crucial for any athlete or fitness enthusiast. In this blog, we explore the distinctive nature of foot and ankle injuries and the critical approach required for effective treatment and recovery.
At Concord Podiatry, specialist David E. Biss, DPM, helps athletes take the best care of their feet and ankles with top-quality podiatric sports medicine. From injury prevention to treatment and recovery, Concord Podiatry has you covered.
Your feet and ankles have major jobs to do. They absorb stress, allow you to pivot, push, and then pivot again, supporting every movement you make. An injury to the foot or ankle is more than just an annoyance; it’s a fundamental interruption to your ability to perform.
The foot is composed of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all working together to support movement. Any of these components is susceptible to injury, and each has its own recovery path.
Because the feet and ankles are so complex, sports injuries such as a simple sprain may be anything but simple. A mild sprain can impact many components of your foot and ankle and may require a complicated treatment approach to get you back in the game.
Your feet and ankles have the additional challenge of being in an area that bears the weight of your entire body. This persistent pressure can make the healing process more difficult, requiring extended periods of rest or reduced activity to recover and prevent re-injury.
Foot and ankle injuries are especially vulnerable to developing into chronic issues. Chronic ankle instability might develop when you don’t rest enough after an injury or when your rehabilitation is incomplete.
Athletes are eager to return to play as soon as possible, and some may have the urge to get back in the game before rehabilitation is complete. This increases the risk of re-injury, which can cause long-term damage.
Healthy feet and ankles are crucial to your performance as an athlete. Running and jumping, as well as changing directions fast, require a strong and powerful foundation. An injury in another area of the body can have a substantial impact on the foot or ankle, affecting the entire kinetic chain.
Foot and ankle injuries tend to have a greater psychological impact than other types of injuries. This is because mobility is a key component of not only sports performance, but also independence. Losing mobility, even temporarily, can cause major distress.
The mental fight to stay optimistic and involved in the rehabilitation process is an important part of the foot and ankle injury healing path.
Sports injuries involving the feet and ankles present a unique set of challenges. That’s why it’s crucial to partner with a specialist who can help you get back on your feet and back in the game as soon as safely possible without risking re-injury.
The right foot and ankle care can give you a solid basis for your future in sports and beyond. For all of your foot and ankle care needs, reach out to our team to schedule a consultation with Dr. Biss. Concord Podiatry is located in Concord and Plymouth, New Hampshire.
