Maintaining Foot Health For Soccer

For soccer players, the feet are the #1 tool needed for success. Correspondingly, it is imperative that players and coaches are aware of the potential issues that soccer poses to the feet. Without knowledge on how to maintain a solid foundation, it will be harder for teams to compete at peak performance. Like many sports, soccer is a game that puts your body at risk. The following is a list of common foot injuries soccer players experience:

• Plantar fasciitis – The connecting tissue from your heel to your toes is known as the plantar fascia. The injury of this tissue is known as plantar fasciitis and is usually caused by the constant pounding/running on hard surfaces.
• Bone spur – Pequliar calcium deposits that sit on the bone that become painful and irritating when interfering with tendon maneuvers.
• Bruise (contusion) – The breakage of small blood vessels forcing blood to permeate into the vandalized area. Usually occurs from being kicked.
• Sprain – When ligaments in the ankle and foot get torn, shredded, and/or stretched inappropriately. Sprain’s range from grade 1 to grade 3, depending on the severity of the injury.
• Broken bone – A loss of continuity in the bone. This injury is usually caused by the improper planting of the foot, getting kicked by an opponent, or getting stepped on.
• Athlete’s foot – a fungus inducing infection, usually occurring between the toes.

Prevention Of Foot Injuries

Although roughly 250,000 soccer players encounter foot issues and injuries annually, there are ways to aid your feet in avoiding these setbacks. First, make sure your cleats are the correct fit. If your cleats are too loose, this will allow your foot to wiggle around and increase your chances of breaking bones and tearing ligaments. Second, stretch the ligaments and muscles surrounding your foot and ankle daily to decrease the likelihood of injury. Third, see a podiatrist as soon as any discomfort arises. At Cherrywood Foot Care, our podiatrists have all of your foot injury needs and our podiatrists take pride in getting athletes back onto the field.

Cherrywood Foot Care

At Cherrywood Foot Care, we use the latest, cutting-edge technology including digital radiology, diagnostic ultrasound, and noveon laser technology to combat fungus. We also offer shockwave treatment therapy to support heel discomfort, perform minimally invasive surgeries, and have many solutions to fight foot deformities. If you or your children are experiencing any type of discomfort or incapacity, book an appointment with Cherrywood foot care online or give us a call at (516) 826-900.