Wichita Podiatrist Explains How to Prevent Foot Injuries in Young Athletes
With school sports season in full swing, young athletes are hitting the field, court, and track. While sports offer incredible physical and mental benefits for kids and teens, they also come with a risk of foot and ankle injuries—especially if proper precautions aren’t taken. Below, our Wichita podiatrist explains some of the most common foot and ankle injuries that can happen in sports and shares helpful tips for preventing injury and keeping feet strong and healthy during game time.
Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Young Athletes
Children and teenagers are particularly prone to sports-related injuries due to growth spurts, repetitive movements, and the high-impact nature of many activities. Some of the most common foot and ankle injuries in young athletes include the following.
- Ankle Sprains: Twisting or rolling the ankle can stretch or tear ligaments, leading to pain and swelling.
- Stress Fractures: Repetitive impact on the feet can cause small cracks in the bones, often seen in runners and basketball players.
- Equinus Deformity: A condition where there is limited upward bending of the ankle, often due to tightness in the Achilles tendon or calf muscles.
- Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease): A growth plate condition affecting children and teens, typically seen in soccer, basketball, and track athletes.
Tips to Prevent Foot and Ankle Injuries
While these injuries can be difficult and restrictive, there is good news—many sports-related injuries can be prevented with the right habits and preparation. There are a number of steps that you can take to keep your feet healthy and strong. Encourage your young athlete to keep the following in mind.
- Stretch Before and After Play: Proper warm-ups and cool-downs can improve flexibility and prevent muscle strain. Focus on ankle circles, toe stretches, and calf stretches.
- Wear the Right Shoes: Sport-specific footwear provides the necessary support and stability. Make sure shoes fit properly and replace them when they show signs of wear.
- Avoid Overuse Injuries: Playing the same sport year-round without rest increases the risk of stress fractures and tendonitis. Encourage cross-training and off-season breaks.
- Listen to Pain Signals: Ignoring pain or "playing through it" can lead to long-term issues. Rest, ice, and seek professional care if discomfort persists.
Our Wichita Podiatrist Can Help Athletes Get Back in the Game
If your child experiences a foot or ankle injury, don’t wait for it to worsen. An experienced podiatrist can assess injuries and provide a personalized treatment plan to help with healing. Our Wichita sports injury podiatrist is here to provide expert care and keep young athletes strong and active all season long. Get in touch with us to find out how we can help.