Ankle and foot injuries are common among gymnasts throughout their careers because of the high impact on hard floors and repetition required in the sport. Research shows that over half of injuries incurred by gymnasts are in the hip, knee, ankle, and foot. Overuse injuries, like ankle sprains, are particularly prevalent among gymnasts. However, more severe injuries, such as tendon ruptures and fractures are common as well. Impact injuries to the feet and ankles come from tumbling, punching, bounding, sprinting, and/or landing in gymnastics. As might be expected, the forces of gymnastics generally range from 15 to 18 times one’s body weight. It can take several repetitions to master movements and short or awkward landings can lead to further injury. Also, their growth plates are wide open and vulnerable to injury. These young people are often asked to specialize in gymnastics and not participate in other sports, as well as train year-round which can have deleterious effects on their potential for injury. Prevention of injury in gymnastics can be helped by proper strength training, skill technique, and recovery. If you or your child participates in gymnastics, you might consider consulting with a podiatrist who can help develop a plan of prevention for foot and ankle injuries and be on board in case an injury of this nature is sustained.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westminster, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.