16/07/2024
SPORTS INJURIES OF THE LOWER LIMB
Often Podiatry is not immediately considered as the first clinicians when it comes to sub-acute ankle sprains, Lisfranc's, turf toe, plantar plate rupture(s) stress fractures or shin splints. In children Osgood Schlatter's or Sever's disease (heel pain) or Iselin's disease
However, we have very comprehensive biomechanical and anatomical knowledge that enables us to conservatively treat, mentioning above only a few of the many injuries that can be acquired whilst undertaking sport or physical activity.
The common cause of injury is poor conditioning/ strength or muscular imbalances leading to tissue stress-strain overload = INJURY.
Inversion (sprained ankle) as an example:
Proven risk factors
- Lack of strength and stability related to the ankle.
- Lack of, or extreme flexibility, in the ankle joint.
- Poor balance.
- Sudden change in direction (acceleration or deceleration).
- Increasing age of player
Suspected risk factors
- Poor condition of the playing surface
- Inappropriate, inadequate, or no warm-up.
- Wearing inappropriate footwear for the activity.
Another very important, but commonly under emphasised is specific footwear recommendations for your foot type and activity being undertaken.... pronation is a necessary motion in our feet for shock absorption, without it or wearing footwear that restrict this motion too much can lead to musculoskeletal pathology.
If you have an old injury that has never been treated or have unfortunately sustained an injury out on the field or on the court, consider booking an appointment for a comprehensive assessment by calling 0487 614 693.
