Foot & Ankle Injuries: Basketball
Foot and ankle injuries, like many other sports-related injuries, may arise due to several factors, including poor technique or equipment. Severe foot or ankle injuries can significantly slow down or halt an athlete’s career, gradually over time or suddenly.
Basketball players’ feet and ankles are susceptible to two kinds of injuries: acute injuries brought on by abrupt, severe blows and chronic injuries that gradually worsen over time. The lower limbs and feet are subjected to much force when playing basketball. Without the right gear and planning, unforeseen problems will inevitably occur.
Basketball puts a lot of strain on the feet and ankles. Jumping, accelerating, abrupt stops, sudden changes in positioning, and collisions with other players can all result in injuries.
A Jones fracture is one of the most prevalent injuries. The long-term effects of severe basketball routines may cause this. In addition to various other issues, stress and excessive workouts for children and teenagers can cause heel discomfort, also known as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures in the shin, posterior tibial tendonitis, and calcaneal apophysitis.
Injuries: Prevention
Persistent injuries may be avoided with the right homework, equipment, and court protocol. Before basketball routines, podiatrists advise stretching exercises and a gentle warm-up. Weight-lifting exercises also aid in lessening the severity of long-term injuries.
A proper shoe is another way to avoid injuries while playing basketball. Basketball-specific footwear should have loads of cushioning and impact reduction.
Many podiatrists prefer high-ankle shoes because some provide better ankle support than others. Shoes should fit comfortably and be changed. For five days of play a week, a standard basketball shoe has to be changed roughly every few months. Wear acrylic socks to prevent foot problems.
Basketball puts a lot of strain on your feet and ankles. In fact, it puts a lot of strain on your entire body and poses a risk of injury. You must rehabilitate properly once you injure your foot or lower leg while playing ball. Braces, tape, or orthotics are essential. Last, the injured area must be restored to its pre-injury strength. If not, it will stay weak and has a much higher chance of sustaining more injuries. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.
