As children and teenagers head back to school, they often increase their physical activity levels, which can put a strain on their feet and ankles. Sports, walking to class, standing in the halls, recess, and long days can shock the feet of your child or teen who spent all summer lounging on the couch.
Today, we at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland will break down common back-to-school related foot and ankle injuries and help parents take preventative measures to ensure a smooth transition into the late-summer rush.
Common Back-to-School Injuries
- Plantar fasciitis: This condition is often aggravated by increased activity levels, especially in sports like running and jumping.
- Ankle sprains: These injuries occur when the ankle joint is twisted or rolled, often caused by missteps or sudden changes in direction.
- Blisters: Increased walking or standing can lead to friction and blisters, particularly in new or ill-fitting shoes.
- Shin splints: Pain along the shinbone, often caused by overuse or improper footwear, is common among young athletes.
Prevention Tips
Say goodbye to sandals. Kids love wearing them to school, as they offer a quick, slip-on, comfortable solution as they rush out the door. But school is not the beach, and massive staircases, uneven parking lots and walkways, and hard tile floors make it easy to sprain your ankle or incur a foot injury.
When it comes to sports, a gradual increase in activity is the name of the game. Neglecting a conditioning period is one of the best ways to injure yourself, no matter what sport it is.
If your child was rather sedentary this summer, make sure they don’t overdo it when they hit the field for the first time. Warmups, stretches, calisthenics, and light drills are great for them to reintroduce their feet to the strenuous demands of performance.
Practicing at Foot and Ankle Associates of Cleveland in Solon, OH, Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, Dr. Jim Swienconek, Dr. Rachel Robinson, and Dr. Courtney Yoder are here to recommend the best injury prevention and treatment plans for your lifestyle. Contact us at (440) 903-1041 or reach us online to book an appointment. We treat patients in Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties. We proudly serve Solon, Aurora, Bedford, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, Macedonia, and Twinsburg, too!