It’s spring again! The arrival of warm, dry weather means increasing activities for many of us. Most of us are eager to renew our warm-weather activities. Unfortunately, this also means an increased likelihood of foot injuries. Therefore, each spring we want to remind you of the simple steps to follow to decrease the chance of an injury so you can have a great spring and summer.
First, if you plan on returning to an activity you have not done for a while, start gradually. Make sure your equipment is functioning well and is not overly worn. If your shoes are tattered or have lost their shock absorption, replace them. Make sure you stretch before and after exercise.
Still, even when every precaution has been taken, you cannot always avoid injuries. If, you do suffer a foot injury, take care of it immediately so it doesn’t ruin your summer. Remember, your first step is invariably RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Your second step is to see your podiatrist.
Many podiatrists provide state-of-the-art sports medicine. For example, we have an H-Wave electric stimulation for acute injury rehabilitation and pain reduction. Your podiatrist should also ensure you receive custom orthotic arch support to create biomechanical balance for your feet. If surgery is unavoidable for heel pain, many podiatrists can perform the procedure with an endoscopic, small incision, fiber optic approach that allows patients to return to full activity rapidly.
I wish you good “foot health” and a great spring and summer season.
Dr. Robert Abrams, DPM, is medical director of the FootCare Center of Santa Clarita. For more information, he can be reached at 661-253-3668 or you may visit his web site at www.killerfeet.net .