Foot Care Orlando FL

The feet are the physical basis for most athletic activities. It is estimated that 15 percent of all sports injuries affect the feet.

Constant pounding on different surfaces often results in severe injury. Most athletes will agree foot pain, for any reason, will impede performance.

The human foot consists of 26 bones held together by a network of muscles and tendons. Blood vessels and peripheral nerves assure circulation and coordinated function with every step.

Sports-related foot injuries are most often because of trauma, improper warm-up, poorly fitting footwear and changes in surface.

Many people err by purchasing shoes that are too narrow. An important thing to look for when choosing shoes is a stiff heel that gives plenty of support. Arch support is crucial.  Many athletic shoes come with gel insoles to absorb pounding. The toe box is where width makes a difference. When choosing a proper shoe, the crease, which forms when the foot is flexed, should be at the widest part of the foot to assure adequate room.

"The most common injury we see in seasonal athletes is plantar fasciitis," said Dr. Michael Scanlon, a podiatrist in private practice in Willimantic.
 
The plantar fascia is a broad, thick, fibrous band that runs from under the heel to the front of the foot. Plantar fascitis is an inflammatory injury most commonly seen in people with very tight calf muscles. Typically, pain occurs when taking the first steps each morning. Scanlon recommends ice, anti-inflammatory medications and stretching.

"Rolling the affected foot over a tennis ball in the morning will stretch the tendon and allow pain-free motion," he said.

Dr. Eric Levine, a podiatrist and foot surgeon in Norwich, recommends early attention to foot and ankle injuries.

"Athletes should not ignore injuries which do not improve after several days of rest," Levine cautions. "Brushing these injuries aside will result in a much longer recovery than if treated early."

Following some basic guidelines can minimize foot injuries. To learn about how to avoid foot injuries, listen to the accompanying podcast at www.backushospital.com or www.norwichbulletin.com.

Anthony G. Alessi, MD, is a neurologist on The William W. Backus Hospital Medical Staff in private practice at NeuroDiagnostics, LLC in Norwich. You can e-mail Dr. Alessi at aalessi@wwbh.org.