As intensive fall sport practice sessions get into full swing, we at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care begin to see more young athletes with sports injuries from Achilles tendonitis and sprained ankles to shin splints and stress fractures. The unfortunate news is that many of these injuries could have been prevented by taking a few precautions. Below are some ways you can help ensure that your child enjoys their fall sport free from podiatric pain and injury.
Get old injuries evaluated. If your child had a foot or ankle injury within the last year or suffers from a chronic foot problem, schedule a checkup at our Edison (732-204-6630), Monroe (732-204-6802) or Monmouth Junction (732-204-6945) office. Our podiatrists, Dr. Varun Gujral and Dr. Nrupa Shah, will examine your child’s foot or ankle and determine if preventive measures are necessary to protect a vulnerable area. The foot doctor can make recommendations for shoes, exercises, or workout modifications that will protect the foot health of your child.
Take children’s complaints of pain seriously. Encouraging your child to “play through the pain,” and other similar exhortations that convey the message that you are not believing them or think what they’re experiencing is insignificant will likely lead to a worse injury. Once diagnosed, be sure your child is diligent about the treatment and rehabilitation prescribed by the podiatrist.
Get the right shoes. Today’s sports shoes are constructed to protect feet during the specific movements a sport calls for. Even if your child has played their current sport before, between foot growth and wear and tear on the old shoes, chances are a new pair will be needed for the current season.
Be a proactive parent. Inspect the field or court where your child will be playing to make sure it is in good repair and does not have divots, holes, or big dips that can lead to ankle twisting injuries and falls. Talk to coaches and watch a practice or two to make sure athletes are stretching properly and following a workout plan that increases the intensity and duration of the workout gradually.
If you are concerned that your child has a sports injury that needs our attention, don’t hesitate to contact us.
