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Running on AstroTurf: Common Sports Injuries


 


 By Center for Podiatric Medicine
 September 28, 2016
 Category: Foot Health
 Tags: Sports Injuries   sports podiatry  
Astroturf can increase an athlete’s risk of injury. Find out how to safely compete on this artificial surface from your Schaumburg sports podiatrist.

Artificial turf has been around for over 40 years, and while it is easier for indoor stadiums to maintain it does have a history of increasing  the chances of sports-related injuries, as well. If you or your players are playing on artificial turf then it’s time you listened to our Schaumburg, IL podiatrists about ways to keep yourself or your team safe.

In the past, older artificial turf was blamed for everything from ankle sprains and concussions to ACL tears. Of course, there is still controversy with even modern-day AstroTurf; however, while these injuries can be scary to any athlete there are ways they can be avoided:

Implement Proper Conditioning

You shouldn’t just jump right into the game without having had training throughout the off-season. Sports can put a significant amount of wear and tear on feet and ankles. Compounded by playing on artificial turf and you’re in for an injury if you don’t prepare your body. You’ll want to talk to your coach about exercises you should be doing to increase mobility and muscle strength.

Wear the Right Gear

The shoes you wear are also important to your game (and no, we don’t mean what brand you’re wearing). You want athletic shoes that can provide support and cushioning for your specific activity level.

And not everyone has the same foot issues: some people have high arches and others pronate. In order to find shoes that will provide the best support while on AstroTurf you will want to speak with a specialist at an athletic shoe store who can help you out.

Consider the Benefits of Orthotics

Orthotics can be a great way to reduce or even eliminate foot pain. Custom orthotics can be prescribed by your foot doctor and can help improve everything from foot pain to even hip or back pain. Besides addressing pain, orthotics can also improve joint mobility and functioning. By altering the faulty foot mechanics that some people have with orthotics we can make it easier for athletes to run or move safely on artificial surfaces.

Tape to Prevent Injuries

If you’ve already experienced an ankle sprain in the past, chances are good that you don’t want to experience another one. Unfortunately, those who’ve already had a history of previous sprains are more likely to experience more in the future. Taping an ankle has even shown effective in protecting against future sprains. If you aren’t sure how to properly tape your foot or ankle, talk to a foot specialist.

It’s important that athletic feet get a little TLC every once in a while. Whether you want to find out if custom orthotics is right for you or you need proper treatment for heel pain let the foot experts at Center for Podiatric Medicine in Schaumburg, IL help you out.

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