Fall sports practices are starting! If you’re not careful, fall foot and ankle injuries can sideline you for the season. It’s that time of year when we are starting to become more active in sports and outdoor activities like 5Ks, football, soccer and cross country. Maintaining your foot and ankle health can help you enjoy your exercise routine and the sports that you love.

Ocean County Foot and Ankle Surgical Associates, P.C. has some important tips to avoid unwanted foot and ankle injuries.

Tip #1 – Make it a habit to stretch before and after any activity
Tip #2 – Be sure to purchase the right footwear
Tip #3 – Always break in your shoes prior to wearing them
Tip #4 – See your Ocean County Foot and Ankle physician for new orthotics

Even if you do everything right, an injury could still unfortunately occur. Below are some common injuries that we treat at Ocean County Foot and Ankle Associates.

• Bone fractures are when the bone is broken in two or more pieces. Patients with fractures typically experience a popping sound at the time of the injury, bruising, swelling, limited range of movement and pain with movement.
• Sprains affect the ligaments that connect bone to bone. Sprains can be mistaken as a broken bone and can be mild or severe.
• Dislocations happen when a bone is pushed or pulled out of place. Often they can be the result of a fall or a direct blow. Although the bone can pop back into place, soft tissue injuries may still occur.
• Stress fractures are hairline cracks that are usually caused by repeated stress to a bone.

Various different foot types may lead to further wear-and-tear injuries. This may require custom-molded orthotics that will help support your feet and help reduce overuse syndromes of your feet and ankles. Ocean County Foot and Ankle Surgical Associates are here to help you and offer treatment plans for your foot and ankle injuries. If you would like to learn more about the types of treatments we offer, or if you are ready to schedule an appointment, give us a call today!