According to reports, approximately 3 million individuals seek treatment at emergency rooms for ankle injuries each year. However, these injuries are preventable a lot of times.
Taking steps to prevent injuries is important for adults, especially those leading active lives and seniors. While some injuries respond well to non-surgical treatment, repetitive injuries may need to be treated with surgery.
Let us discuss why foot injuries occur and ways to prevent them. We also talk about when seeing a “foot doctor near me” is necessary.
Common Causes of Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries can have different underlying causes. Here are some of the most commonly known causes of podiatric injuries:
- Improper Footwear: Wearing inappropriate shoes that lack support can lead to injuries.
- Lack of Warm-Up: Not properly stretching or warming up before physical activity can increase the risk of injury.
- Overuse: Repetitive activities like running, jumping, or intense exercise can strain the foot and ankle joints, leading to overuse injuries.
- Accidents: Slips, trips, or falls can cause sprains, fractures, and other injuries. Ankle sprains are the most common podiatric injuries.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis can weaken the feet and ankles, making them more susceptible to injury.
Preventing Foot and Ankle Injuries
According to research, Americans do not think of their feet as often as they think of their teeth, for example. Foot health should be a priority, for neglecting it can lead to pain and limitations.
There are several ways to protect your feet and ankles from injury:
1. Wear the Right Footwear
Choose shoes with proper support and cushioning. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight, loose, or lack arch support. Make sure to set a reminder to replace shoes that are worn out and no longer provide proper support.
2. Incorporate Stretching Exercises
Stretch your calves, Achilles tendons, and feet regularly. Perform gentle ankle rotations to improve flexibility. It is very important to stretch before and after physical activity to prevent muscle injuries.
3. Strengthen the Muscles Around Your Foot and Ankle
Do exercises that strengthen your feet. Simple exercises such as heel lifts and ankle circles go a long way. In addition, you should also do balance exercises to improve the stability of the ankles and prevent falls. Do not forget to strengthen your leg muscles, especially the calves and shins, to support the ankles.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Keep your body weight within a healthy range to reduce stress on your feet and ankles. Combine a balanced diet with regular physical activity to manage weight. Avoid putting unnecessary strain on your joints by practicing low-impact exercises.
5. Gradually Increase Physical Activity
Ease into new sports or activities to avoid overuse injuries. A sudden increase in the intensity and duration of exercise or sport does not give your body time to adapt. Furthermore, rest between activities to provide your muscles and joints with enough time to recover.
6. Use Protective Gear When Necessary
Wear braces or supports during activities that put extra stress on your ankles. If you are prone to sprains or instability, consider taping your ankles.
When Foot and Ankle Surgery Might Be Necessary
Even with the best efforts, injuries may occur, and foot and ankle surgery might still be necessary. Signs that indicate surgery could be required include severe pain that does not improve with treatment, deformities, or the inability to bear weight on the foot or ankle.
A foot doctor with advanced training in surgery or a foot and ankle surgeon can guide your treatment. You can find a foot and ankle doctor through specific search terms. Search for “foot and ankle surgery near me” or “foot and ankle specialist in San Antonio, TX,” to find providers near you.
A foot and ankle surgeon can perform surgery to repair the bones and tissues, decompress the nerves, realign the bones, and more. They can use advanced techniques such as arthroscopy, which minimizes trauma to healthy tissue. As a result, patients experience less post-operative pain and a faster recovery period.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery is a critical part of treatment before returning to normal activities. Post-surgery rehabilitation includes physical therapy exercises that restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the lower extremities. Follow your foot doctor’s advice, and do not miss follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Avoid rushing the recovery process, as it can lead to complications.
Preventing foot and ankle injuries is possible with the right knowledge and interventions. With the guidance of an experienced podiatrist, you can maintain the health of your feet. Remember, your feet are key to an active and independent lifestyle.
Foot and Ankle Surgery in San Antonio, TX
The Podiatry Group of South Texas has an exceptionally skilled team of foot and ankle surgeons. Our physicians regularly see patients with foot injuries, diabetic foot conditions, arthritis, and more. Our facilities are well-equipped with advanced technologies and designed with your comfort in mind.
We guide our patients on the right path for maintaining foot health. For persistent pain or chronic foot and ankle issues, we are here for you! To schedule an appointment with one of our foot doctors, call us today at (210) 227-8700.
