The feet bear the weight of the entire body which makes foot injuries quite common. Unfortunately as athletes, we do not realize the effects of sports on the feet. Many times athletic foot injuries occur without warning and for numerous reasons. The foot can withstand a lot of pressure and weight yet over time the foot gradually becomes more vulnerable to injury. Some of the most common reasons for foot injuries includes trauma to the area, an improper warm up, intense exercise sessions, overuse of the foot, performing on hard surfaces and not wearing the right type of footwear.
These common ways to injure the feet can happen to anyone, athlete or not. However, athletes must be particularly cautious when it comes to foot injuries. Not only do they occur more frequently in athletes and cause extreme pain, but these injuries will also prevent athletes from doing what they love. It is imperative that these injuries are diagnosed and properly cared for so that they do not continue to create more problems in the area.
Basketball is a commonly played sport for males and females of all ages. The most common injuries for basketball players are Achilles tendinitis and ankle sprains. All of the jumping and pressure from landing causes the tendon to either partially tear or even rupture. Quick, explosive movements that are slightly off can cause injury to the ankle. The Anterior talofibula ligament is the most common ligament to be damaged while playing basketball.
Soccer players are usually victims of metatarsal fractures. The metatarsals are the five long bones that are located in the foot. Soccer players are constantly on their feet. The overuse can lead to stress fractures as can the use of improper footwear. Gymnasts, ballet dancers and runners often suffer from metatarsal stress fractures as well.
Speaking of runners, they often suffer the most from the effects of sports on the feet. Through the overuse of the feet and without constant rest, Achilles tendinitis is one of the first foot injuries to occur. Another common injury is plantar fasciitis. With overuse of the plantar fascia (the tendon that spans from the heel to the sole of the foot) and improper footwear, there is not enough support for the arch of the foot which causes pain. Volleyball players often suffer from this injury as well as a result from playing on hard surfaces, overuse and jumping.
Gymnasts are often the athletes who have the most damage done to their feet and their injuries can also be career ending. Some of the injuries include Lisfranc fracture- dislocations, talocalcaneal fractures, metatarsal fractures, malleolar fractures and sesamoid fractures.
As an athlete, you should become aware of the most common foot injuries and understand how sports negatively impact the feet. You must take the appropriate steps to prevent against these injuries in order to have a successful career. Also, coaches and trainers should be made aware of the effects of sports on the feet to prevent injury to their athletes.
