Basketball, soccer, and hockey are popular choices for many young athletes in the K-12 bracket, but while these sports offer countless benefits, they also come with the risk of injuries. And unfortunately, those injuries have a nasty habit of getting worse when left untreated.
The team at Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists is here to help! Below, you’ll find a podiatrist-approved guide to help you spot, treat, and recover from common back-to-school sports injuries, one step at a time.
Common Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries occur when repetitive motions put too much stress on the body. Some common overuse injuries in young athletes include:
- Ankle Sprains: Common in basketball and soccer, ankle sprains often involve the ligaments that support the ankle joint.
- Shin Splints: Pain along the shinbone, often experienced by runners and soccer players.
- Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in the bone, usually caused by repetitive stress. Common in the foot and lower leg.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Common in basketball and running.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the tendon connecting the calf muscle to the heel. Common in basketball and soccer.
Treatment and Recovery
Standard treatments such as the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) work well in the immediate aftermath of these injuries. If pain persists, however, it’s essential to seek professional help. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Options may include:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises can strengthen and stretch the injured area.
- EPAT Therapy: This non-invasive, innovative approach is gaining traction as a solution to chronic pain, boosting natural tissue regeneration and healing.
- Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts can support and protect the foot and ankle.
- Bracing or Taping: Either option provides valuable additional support and stability.
By following these guidelines and seeking professional care when needed, you can help your child enjoy a safe and successful sports season! We hope they push their personal best and have fun doing it, too.
If you are experiencing foot-related problems and want to explore treatment options, look no further than our team at Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists. We are here to provide compassionate support and care tailored to your individual podiatric needs. Contact our office in Chatham County at (912) 988-3323 to schedule an appointment today!