Your foot and ankles are critical, considering their contribution to your mobility. You go about your day with minimal thoughts about how the complex joints, bones, muscles, and ligaments, among other parts, work together to facilitate motion. Nonetheless, when hurt, you can hardly think about anything else. The pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and instability, among other symptoms, can considerably hamper your routine. A visit to Marque A. Allen DPM, FACFAS, is recommended whenever you experience such symptoms to ensure they are thoroughly addressed. This can prevent the foot and/or ankle injury from worsening, making it easier to go about your day. Let’s look at the common risk factors to help you further avoid incurring or aggravating foot and ankle injuries.
Activity
Foot and ankle injuries are common in athletes. You are at high risk of injuries if you participate in sporting activities requiring twisting your foot, jumping, or contact action. Examples include cocker, tennis, and football. You can limit the risk by warming up, employing the right technique, and exercising to condition and improve muscle strength. The worst part about sports-related foot and ankle injuries is that they could see you missing out on the action for some time, which can impact your mental and overall well-being.
Prior injury
If you have had an ankle or foot injury, you are at high risk of experiencing it again. This is mainly due to the impacted muscle and ligaments that might not fully recover. Even after recovery, meaning you aren’t experiencing any pain or other symptoms, the area might not fully heal, leaving them susceptible to injuries following the least stress. With that in mind, seeking medical attention for a thorough diagnosis and treatment is recommended. You also should follow the doctor’s recommendation even when you are feeling fine to facilitate better recovery.
The surface
Do you often walk or run on uneven surfaces? Your morning runs could be doing some damage to your feet and ankles. The extra stress as they quickly readjust for an even land gradually impacts their integrity, increasing injury risk. Moreover, you can easily land awkwardly, increasing the chances of an injury. Considering the terrain of your favorite park can help you pick a more even surface for your workouts and limit injury chances.
Footwear
Do your shoes fit well? Your shoes are more than a fashion item. They provide the support that makes your activities more manageable while limiting injury chances. Shoes that do not fit well are not ideal for any activity. Fashionable selections such as high-heeled shoes are also worth reconsidering since they make your ankles more vulnerable to injuries. Besides the style, as you go footwear shopping, consider your foot type and pick shoes that offer appropriate support.
Improving your physical condition, which mainly touches on flexibility and strength, can help limit foot and ankle injury chances. While some injuries may not be overwhelming and can quickly subside with self-care, seeking medical attention is recommended. Contact Marque Allen, DPM, FACFAS, today for all your foot-related concerns.