How To Avoid Summer Sports Injuries

Prevent foot and ankle injuries from happening to you by following these quick tips.

We all hear about the benefits of exercise; however, sometimes too much of a good thing can actually be bad. If you are looking to dust off those running shoes and start hitting the trails now that the weather is warm, it’s time to follow some helpful tips from your Roslyn podiatrists so you don’t fall victim to a sports injury.

Condition and prepare your body: Even if you aren’t running a marathon it’s still important to get your body ready for any sporting endeavor. This means gradually increasing the intensity and endurance of your workout to correspond with the type of workout you’ll experience when you are on the field or court. Talk to your and Huntington podiatrists about ways to properly amp up your workout without being prone to injury.

Warm-up and stretch before working out: This is often forgotten about especially if you are anxious before a game or you are just really antsy to get out for your run. However, take a few minutes to make sure your muscles are warm and limber. Cold muscles are bad for athletes, as the inflexibility can lead to tearing, strains and sprains.

Buy the proper gear: Protect your feet and ankles by wearing the appropriate footwear for your sports activity. Not all shoes are created the same. Some will offer better protection for lateral movements that basketball and tennis players have to do often. If you run outside, you will want high-impact tennis shoes that offer enough shock absorption and support so your feet to get the brunt of it. Talk to your Roslyn podiatrists about how to properly shop for the right footwear.

Change up your exercise regime: Performing the same repetitive exercises can actually cause strain and injury on your muscles. Therefore, change up your workout every once in a while to keep your feet and ankles from experiencing common repetitive use problems like Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.

Stop exercising if you experience pain: It can be hard to sit out a game or not go on your morning jog if it’s become an important part of your life; however, if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort then it’s time to listen to your body and take a break. Minor problems can quickly turn worse if you exacerbate your condition.

If you do experience a sports-related injury or you start to notice foot or ankle issues, then it’s time to address them immediately. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your Roslyn and Huntington podiatrists at Associated Podiatrists. Don’t let foot problems keep you from living life.