By Melissa Lockwood, DPM
Back to school means back to the books, but it also means getting back into fall sports. Since many kids spend the summer relaxing and enjoying their time off, participating in football, cross-country, soccer, cheerleading, and other strenuous sports can put a strain on out-of-shape muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and bones. Many times even the youngest athletes can be susceptible to injury – especially foot injuries – while playing sports like soccer. As children’s feet are still growing, serious injuries can cause long-term problems. Below are some common foot injuries and some tips that can help those injuries be easily avoided by our soccer superstars!
Ankle Sprain/Strain — Any type of running sport leaves us vulnerable for an ankle sprain. With soccer, it is important that an athlete’s cleats are measured frequently for size (see more below) and are laced properly and tightly to give further support to those growing ankle ligaments. Sometimes even a soft brace can be worn with the cleats for further support. If an injury does occur, immediately perform RICE therapy (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate) and see a medical professional right away. Ankle sprains, which can be stretched or torn ligaments, are more common than fractures. Watch for extensive swelling around the ankle.
Shin Splint — Shin splints are tiny tears or inflammation of the muscles on the front of the leg. Rest is the best way to heal these injuries, but if pain persists, a podiatrist can recommend strengthening, specific shoes, or orthotics (insoles).
Turf Toe/Hematoma — Anytime the cleat meets a soccer ball, you can risk an injury to your toes and toenails. Most of the time, this manifests as either turf toe, which is a hyperextension of the toe from the blunt trauma to it; or a hematoma, which is a collection of blood and fluid under the toenail. Both of these problems require icing and attention from a podiatrist to prevent further issues.
Fractures/Stress Fractures — Broken bones are a part of sports, but the risks can be minimized if cleats and shoes are well fitted and athletes are diligent about proper techniques. Growth plates are particularly susceptible to injuries, but mid-shaft fractures of the bone also occur. Swelling, pain on the top of the foot, bruising, and an inability to bear weight on the foot are all common symptoms of a break. This obviously requires quick attention to immobilize the area, and usually a trip to the podiatrist office to determine for sure if it is a break or a sprain. If a fracture is not severe, rest and immobilization may be the best treatments. More complicated injuries may require casting or surgical correction.
With care and consideration, fall athletes can easily have a great season! Just be sure to get fitted for new cleats either every school year OR every six months, depending on how frequently your student is playing their favorite sport! Hope to see them someday in the World Cup!
If you or your children experience any type of foot or ankle injury, please contact Dr. Lockwood at or www.heartlandfootandankle.com or 309-661-9975.
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